‘Sorry for the last few days’ distress’— Fubara on Rivers situation

Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, has expressed regret to the people of the state over the recent political crisis.

Fubara made this known in a statement he signed, titled ‘Peace is priceless’, which was released to journalists on Saturday in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

He appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his role, which he said led to a series of dialogues aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

Fubara stated that he was ready to make any sacrifice for the sake of peace, saying it is the joint duty of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and himself to use their positions to promote the development, security, and welfare of the people.

The statement reads, “My dear good people of Rivers State, I deem it necessary to issue this press statement on the events of the past few days in our beloved state.

“Late on Sunday, October 29, 2023, I received reports that the sacred chamber of the Rivers State House of Assembly has been razed by fire. The fire was successfully extinguished by the fire service, after which security agencies took charge of the situation.

“My visit to the assembly complex on Monday, October 30, 2023, was to evaluate the extent of damage and take preventive measures to protect lives and property within the assembly complex. I instructed the security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and report it to me.

“Shortly after, I received reports that the state House of Assembly had split into two factions: one claiming to have impeached and suspended the House Leader and three others in preparation to initiate an impeachment action against me, and the other opposing faction impeaching the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, thus triggering some form of political crisis.

“I wish to thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, for his fatherly role, which opened a series of dialogues to facilitate the prompt resolution of the brewing crises. I wish to also thank our elders who are currently intervening in the matter.”

Fubara continued, “Let me clearly state that my actions are aimed at restoring peace and stability in our state. I am a man of peace, and as governor, the development of our state is my primary concern.

“Consequently, I am willing to make any sacrifice to achieve this objective. Furthermore, as leaders, it is the collective duty of the immediate past governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and my humble self, to leverage our positions and influences within and outside the state to promote the development, security, and welfare of our people.

“We must, therefore, not allow situations that could hinder all efforts at achieving greatness for our people to prevail.

“On our part, we are always willing and ready to embrace the path to lasting peace and tranquilly with a commitment to consummating all efforts and initiatives by Mr. President and other well-meaning Nigerians, including my brother governors and the elders.

“I assure the people of Rivers State that peace will certainly prevail, and we shall continue to work together to promote the peace, security, and progress of our state.”

“As governor, I sincerely apologise to the good people of Rivers State for the unfortunate worries of the last few days, while thanking you all for your concerns and continued support, love, and prayers. May God continue to bless our dear Rivers State,” he prayed.