“We’ll Face The Situation With Wisdom” – Fubara Reacts to State of Emergency Declaration in Rivers

• President Bola Tinubu declared a State of Emergency in Rivers.

• The President Suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

• Governor Fubara has now reacted to the situation with a call for resilience from Rivers People.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reacted to the State of Emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.

In a state broadcast on Tuesday night, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Fubara and his deputy, as well as the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The President cited rising threats to the security of lives and national properties following the bombing of two oil facilities in the state within 12 hours.

READ ALSO: 10 Things To Know About Ibok-ete Ibas, Sole Administrator Of Rivers State

Aside from declaring a State of Emergency in Rivers for six months, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Sole Administrator of Rivers State for six months.

Reacting to the development, Fubara, in an address to the people of the state, called for calm, urging them to “remain peaceful and law-abiding”.

The embattled governor further added that his administration “will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process”.

READ ALSO: Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers, Suspends Governor Fubara

He wrote:

“My dear Rivers People,

“I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

“Since assuming office as your governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.

“We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear state.

“Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.

“This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.

“Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.

“These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity, and stability in our dear state.

“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.

“Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.

“Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.

“At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.

“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.

God bless Rivers State.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sir, Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS