The Rivers Grassroot Movement (RGM) has thrown its full weight behind the embattled Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, while cautioning that Rivers people must never again allow the state to slide back into the dark days of political unrest and division.
At the Extraordinary Stakeholders Meeting held in Port Harcourt, the leader of the movement, High Chief Hon. (Amb.) Sobomabo Jackrich, delivered a passionate address urging unity, accountability, and people-centered leadership. He emphasized that the time had come for Rivers people to put aside partisanship, speak with one voice, and pursue the common good of the state.
Chief Jackrich renewed the group’s appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly immediately after the expiration of the emergency rule. According to him, restoring democratic structures is not just a constitutional necessity but also vital for ensuring that Rivers State remains aligned with the democratic progress of Nigeria. He warned that any attempt to delay or derail this process could reignite tensions that have only recently subsided, stressing that Rivers people cannot afford another round of political crisis.
The RGM commended both Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, for their roles in maintaining relative calm in the state despite months of political turbulence. Jackrich described Fubara’s restraint as evidence of his “deep-rooted love for Rivers State,” while praising Wike for showing willingness to reconcile and put the state first. He said these actions prove that peace is possible when leaders rise above personal interests and prioritize Rivers people.
Chief Jackrich assured that the RGM would not back down from its mission of championing justice, equity, and accountability. The movement, he noted, will continue to engage both public and private institutions on policy formulation and implementation, while demanding accountability from leaders at all levels. He stressed that this is how peace, governance, and accountability can truly work together to uplift Rivers State.
Declaring total solidarity with Governor Fubara, the RGM praised his vision and the developmental projects he has initiated across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state. Even though emergency rule has slowed their delivery, Jackrich expressed confidence that the governor will fast-track implementation upon reinstatement. He described Fubara’s leadership style as people-oriented, noting that his projects are reshaping both the economic and infrastructural landscapes of Rivers State.
The RGM leader urged the Governor and the House of Assembly to set aside their differences and work in harmony for the sake of Rivers people. He insisted that collaboration at the highest level of leadership was the only way to restore public trust and accelerate development. According to him, the people have endured enough distractions, crises, and divisions, and what Rivers State needs now is unity and collaboration, not conflict.
The meeting ended on a celebratory note as the RGM honoured High Chief Barr. Dumo Lulu-Briggs with an Award of Trusteeship in recognition of his integrity, leadership, and lifelong commitment to peace and progress in Rivers State. Chief Jackrich described Lulu-Briggs — a respected traditional ruler, entrepreneur, and former governorship candidate — as a man of unquestionable integrity whose life embodies service and reconciliation
