Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who was recently suspended, has publicly thanked President Bola Tinubu for his crucial role in addressing the political unrest that engulfed the state.
Speaking at a May 29 event organized by his supporters under the banner of the Simplified Movement in Port Harcourt, Fubara described Tinubu’s intervention as both timely and essential. He said the President’s efforts helped stabilize the situation and allowed him and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, to remain in their respective positions.
Fubara urged his supporters to recognize and appreciate the President’s involvement, emphasizing that without Tinubu’s mediation, the crisis could have escalated further.
He also expressed gratitude to his loyal supporters and Nigerians who stood by him during the months-long political turmoil. Acknowledging the efforts of those who protested and prayed on his behalf, Fubara noted that peaceful demonstrations alone are not always sufficient to resolve intricate political challenges.
The governor asked for understanding and forgiveness from anyone who may have been disappointed by his actions, stating that his decisions were made in the interest of preserving the state’s peace and development.
Addressing the rift with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Fubara assured supporters that reconciliation was underway. He revealed that since President Tinubu’s involvement, several peace meetings had taken place, including some at Wike’s residence. He affirmed that there was no reason for continued conflict between the two leaders.
Although he expressed regret over the inability to inaugurate new projects on May 29, Fubara said he remained thankful for the unwavering support shown by his followers during the commemorative gathering.
President Tinubu had earlier suspended Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months, following a prolonged political crisis that unsettled the coastal state.
