Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and members of the National Assembly for their roles in restoring peace and democracy after six months of political turmoil under emergency rule.
In a statewide broadcast on Friday evening, the governor described Tinubu’s intervention in declaring a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, as “timely and decisive,” adding that the move prevented further escalation of the crisis. According to the 9am News report, Fubara emphasized that even though the emergency rule was challenging, it provided the platform for reconciliation and stability.
“Costliest Peace Cheaper Than Cheapest War”
Fubara reminded Rivers people that while some viewed the peace package as imperfect, it was far better than the alternative. “The costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war,” he said, assuring residents that the peace process still allows room for adjustments, negotiations, and inclusiveness.
He expressed appreciation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and members of the National Assembly for facilitating the dialogue that led to reconciliation. The governor also thanked religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and the people of Rivers State for their patience and resilience during the emergency period.
Governor Fubara acknowledged Wike’s role in embracing the peace process, despite being at the center of the conflict. He noted that all parties, including himself, Wike, and the Rivers State House of Assembly, had “buried the hatchet” in the best interest of the state.
He further stated: “As your governor, I accepted to abide by the state of emergency declaration and chose to cooperate with Mr. President and the National Assembly, guided by my conviction that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability, and progress of Rivers State.”
Commitment to Governance and Development
Looking ahead, Fubara promised to refocus his administration on governance, pledging to complete ongoing projects in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other critical sectors. He also vowed to work harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to recover lost grounds and accelerate economic growth.
“Our immediate responsibility is to return to the path of governance and development by ensuring that no project is abandoned and by reviving our economy to improve the wellbeing of all Rivers people,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu, pledging “utmost gratitude and service with the fear of God, humility, and a high sense of duty.”
Fubara urged all political actors, stakeholders, and citizens to rise above bitterness and division. “Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future. We must channel our energies into rebuilding trust and securing a peaceful and prosperous state for all,” he said.
He concluded by calling on Rivers people, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation, to join hands in rebuilding the state. “Finally, in all, I give glory to the Almighty God,” he added.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
