5 Key Takeaways From Fubara's Speech as He Returns as Rivers State Gov After Tinubu’s Announcement
- Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, arrived at the Government House on Friday afternoon, September 19
- Fubara showed appreciation to his supporters for their solidarity following the lifting of the six-month state of emergency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- On Friday evening, Governor Fubara addressed Rivers residents in a statewide broadcast
Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering politics, election, and governance in Nigeria.
Port Harcourt, Rivers state - Rivers governor, Siminalayi Fubara, gave a statewide broadcast, following the end of an emergency rule which he described as one of the most challenging moments for the state.
As reported by Channels Television, Fubara pledged to work harmoniously with members of the Rivers state house of asembly 'to recover lost ground and accelerate the advancement of social and economic development'.
Source: Facebook
Recall Governor Fubara’s aircraft touched down at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, at exactly 12:19 p.m. on Friday, September 19, where jubilant supporters had gathered to welcome him back. From the airport to Government House, crowds thronged out in celebration, reaffirming their loyalty and bond with his administration.
Speaking shortly after arriving at the Government House, Governor Fubara delivered a public broadcast.
In the statewide address, monitored by Legit.ng, Governor Fubara noted that all key political actors in Rivers state, including Nyesom Wike, the minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), have "accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace."
Fubara takes over again in Rivers
Below are the takeaways from Fubara's speech:
1) 'No more crisis in Rivers'
Fubara confirmed that he and his former boss, Wike, have resolved their political differences, describing it as a key step towards lasting peace in Rivers state.
Fubara said the six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu had been challenging but ultimately allowed all parties to reconcile.
2) 'Fresh beginning in Rivers'
Fubara said:
"Let us, therefore, embrace this moment as a fresh beginning. Let us work together with renewed hope and determination to build a stronger, more peaceful and prosperous Rivers state. I assure you that we will continuously work towards ensuring that we carry everyone along."
3) Fubara pleased with Tinubu's intervention
Fubara assured President Tinubu that he will not take for granted the role he played in resolving the state’s political crisis.
The Rivers' No.1 citizen lauded Tinubu for intervening during the six-month emergency rule imposed in March, saying the president’s actions helped to restore democratic governance in the state.
He said:
"Personally, I will never take Mr. President's kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude."
4) Reason for not challenging emergency rule
Fubara said the six-month state of emergency by Tinubu was driven by the need to preserve peace and stability.
According to him:
"This was why I resisted the pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration of a state of emergency, the suspension of democratic institutions, and all other actions that we endured during this difficult period."
5) Fubara allays fears
Fubara said:
"To those who have expressed genuine fears, frustrations, and uncertainty over the nature of the peace process, I assure you that your concerns are valid and understood. However, nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness. We must all remember the saying... " the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war".
Tonye Cole speaks on Fubara's return
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the 2023 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers state, Tonye Cole, said Fubara would have ‘zero’ powers when his suspension is lifted.
According to him, Fubara would find himself in a difficult situation. The APC chieftain stated that Fubara would not be able to make any decision as a governor without interference.
Source: Legit.ng
