Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly extended an olive branch to political opponents and stakeholders in the state, declaring that the time for conflict is over. In a heartfelt address marking the second anniversary of his administration, the governor emphasized forgiveness, unity, and collective progress, signaling a shift in tone following months of intense political crisis.
While the event lacked the fanfare of a typical midterm celebration — no major project commissioning or banquet — the governor used the occasion to address deeper issues that have rocked his government and divided the state.
“We’re not in a banquet hall or commissioning a project today,” Fubara began. “But we are here, and we are alive. That alone is reason to thank God. I also want to thank the good people who stood by me. Truly good people.”
The governor’s message was filled with gratitude for supporters across Rivers State and Nigeria, many of whom, he said, invested their resources and emotions in the survival of his administration.
“There are people who almost collapsed when they heard what I said during the crisis,” he said. “People I don’t even know spent their money, their time, and their strength — all so that we could succeed. I’m truly grateful.”
Fubara made special mention of a critical intervention by President Bola Tinubu, which, he stated, helped prevent a total breakdown in governance.
“Protests alone wouldn’t have solved the problem,” he admitted. “Mr. President stepped in at the right time and salvaged what was a very terrible situation.”
Reflecting on the power tussle that fractured his government, Governor Fubara extended forgiveness to his opponents and called for a renewal of the unity that once defined their shared journey to power.
“Let me be clear — I have no anger, no bitterness. Whatever anyone has done, I have forgiven,” he said. “And if I have also said or done anything that hurt you or made you act in a certain way, I ask you to forgive me too.”
He compared the conflict to two dogs fighting over a bone, only for a third to walk away with it, emphasizing the need to stop internal fights that benefit external forces.
“There is no problem that is not solvable. What matters is a forgiving spirit,” the governor declared. “This state must move forward. The people of Rivers deserve peace and progress.”
Governor Fubara made a strong case for collaborative governance, reaching out to both the executive and legislative arms to rekindle their partnership for the sake of the state’s development.
“Let us return to the bond we had — when we campaigned together, laughed together, worked together,” he urged. “I can’t win alone. We need each other to win.”
He stressed that leadership should not be defined by coercion, but by service.
“I want to earn your respect, not force it,” Fubara said. “I want you to feel free to correct me when I’m wrong, knowing that I’m human. That’s what real leadership is.”
Despite the political turbulence that clouded the second-year celebration, Governor Fubara assured Rivers people that his administration remains focused on development and public service. He acknowledged that the past few months had slowed down plans but insisted that there is still time to achieve the administration’s goals.
“If not for the crisis, today would have been marked with major programs and project showcases,” he said. “But everything happens for a reason. By the grace of God, we will return to those projects. We will continue the work.”
The governor’s message resonated as both a confession and a pledge — an appeal to leave the past behind and a commitment to building a more inclusive, peaceful future for Rivers State.
“In the end, what matters is not individual pride but the collective interest,” he concluded. “Let’s rebuild Rivers together.”
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