Fubara Calls for Calm After Tinubu’s State of Emergency Declaration

In a statement, the Governor called for calm as he engages with relevant institutions to ensure that the nation’s democracy remains strong.

Recall that President Tinubu yesterday declared a state of emergency on Rivers State, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the state’s administrator for an initial six-month period.

In a 12-paragraph statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr Joe Johnson, the embattled Governor said he regretted the unfortunate moment in the 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 prioritised 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 and 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,” he stated.

Mr Fubara explained that, “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.”

According to Mr Fubara, “We have political disagreements, but good governance has continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects are 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.”