Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has revealed that his decision not to legally contest the emergency rule imposed on the state was a conscious sacrifice to secure peace and stability.
In his first state broadcast after being restored to office, Fubara disclosed that he resisted immense pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration and suspension of democratic institutions, noting that he chose cooperation over confrontation.
“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,” he said.
The governor admitted that the last six months under emergency rule were “enormously challenging,” but stressed that the cost of instability would have been greater than the personal and political sacrifice he made.
WATCH FULL VIDEO ON SYMFONI TV
He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu successfully brokered reconciliation between him, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, leading to the restoration of democratic governance in the state.
“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,” Fubara said. “The costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.”
Fubara expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his “fatherly and decisive interventions,” and reaffirmed his loyalty, while also praising Rivers people for their resilience throughout the political crisis.
He assured citizens that his administration would return focus to governance, completing ongoing projects in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other critical sectors, while committing to work harmoniously with the State House of Assembly.
Calling on all Rivers people to rise above bitterness and division, the governor urged:
“Let us 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.
