Suspended governor Sim Fubara reaffirms commitment to Rivers People amid political crisis

Despite being suspended from office, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has restated his unwavering commitment to the oath he swore upon assuming office, assuring citizens that he remains resolute in upholding the trust and mandate bestowed upon him.

In a reflective message commemorating the second anniversary of his swearing-in on May 29, 2023, Fubara described the milestone as one of “sober reflection and renewed determination.”

He emphasized that the ongoing political turbulence has neither broken his spirit nor distracted him from his primary mission of unity, progress, and good governance.

“Today marks exactly two years since I took the oath of office as your 7th democratically-elected Governor,” Fubara said in a statement personally signed by him. “On May 29, 2023, I was sworn in following the clear and overwhelming mandate you gave me during the March 18, 2023 elections. Once again, I thank you for the trust, honour, and privilege to lead our beloved State.”

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The embattled governor acknowledged the turbulence that has defined Rivers State’s political landscape over the past year, particularly his prolonged standoff with his political godfather and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Their fallout triggered a deepening political crisis, paralyzing the state House of Assembly and threatening statewide security.

Despite these challenges, Fubara said he remains “steadfast and focused,” guided by the oath of office and a commitment to put Rivers State above personal or political interests.

“I pledged to protect and promote our collective interests and ensure you enjoy the real dividends of democracy and good governance. That commitment remains unshaken,” he assured.

The statement also acknowledged the support of Rivers people, which Fubara said has been a source of strength. “Your encouragement has given me the courage to continue to pursue unity, peace, and healing. Our journey may be turbulent, but it has also been progressive and impactful,” he noted.

The political impasse between Fubara and Wike reached a tipping point when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervened earlier this year. In a bid to prevent a total breakdown of law and order, the President declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Fubara from office. Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) was appointed Sole Administrator to lead the state during this period.

In a significant development, Fubara recently met with Wike in a bid to restore peace and rebuild trust.

During the meeting, Wike described Fubara as his “son” and expressed openness to reconciliation. Political observers believe this step could be pivotal to resolving the crisis that has fractured the ruling political structure in the state.

As Rivers State marks two years since its last democratic transition, the spotlight remains on the suspended governor’s next moves and whether the reconciliation efforts will yield lasting peace. For now, Fubara’s message is clear: his commitment to Rivers State and its people remains intact, crisis or not.