Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has urged residents to remain calm and united following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state amid a deepening political crisis.

 In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, President Tinubu announced the emergency measure, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.

 The President also appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.

Addressing Rivers residents in a statement he personally signed, Fubara acknowledged the turbulent political climate but reaffirmed his commitment to the state’s stability and progress. 

 “We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive,” he assured. Fubara maintained that his actions as governor had been within constitutional boundaries, emphasising his dedication to safeguarding lives, property, and the state’s development despite the ongoing political turmoil. He accused lawmakers loyal of deliberately obstructing his administration’s efforts, particularly in implementing the Supreme Court’s ruling.  “At every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult,” he lamented. Despite the crisis, Fubara insisted that governance in the state had not been derailed.  “Good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the state forward,” he stated.

The governor reassured residents that Rivers State remained secure under his leadership and urged them to remain law-abiding.  “At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding,” he appealed.

Fubara concluded by calling on citizens to remain steadfast, patient, and committed to democracy, emphasising the resilience of Rivers people in overcoming challenges.