Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, on Friday, September 19, 2025, addressed the people of the state in a statewide broadcast, marking the official end of the six-month emergency rule imposed earlier this year.
Governor Fubara reminded citizens that the emergency rule was declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025, following intense political crises in the state. He acknowledged that the period had been one of the most challenging in Rivers State’s history but stressed that his decision to cooperate with the President and the National Assembly was driven by a desire to preserve peace, stability, and progress.
He revealed that, despite pressures, he resisted challenging the constitutionality of the declaration, choosing instead to prioritize reconciliation. According to him, President Tinubu played a pivotal role in brokering peace among all stakeholders, including former Governor and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the Rivers State House of Assembly, and himself.
Governor Fubara noted that all parties had agreed to “bury the hatchet” and work together for the state’s stability. He described the restoration of peace as a significant milestone and a reminder of the lessons learned under emergency rule.
“The responsibility now rests on all of us—government, legislature, political leaders, and stakeholders—to put aside differences and advance the common good,” he said, emphasizing the need to ensure that the peace gained is permanent.
On behalf of the government and people of Rivers State, Fubara expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for his “fatherly disposition and decisive interventions” that restored full democratic governance to the state. He also reaffirmed his personal loyalty to the President.
The governor acknowledged the fears and concerns raised by citizens about the peace process but assured them that nothing had been irretrievably lost. Quoting an old saying, he reminded the people that “the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.”
Fubara called on Rivers people to embrace the moment as a fresh beginning, pledging that his administration would continue to prioritize inclusiveness, unity, and development. He highlighted achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other sectors despite recent turbulence and promised to complete all ongoing projects.
He further assured that his government would work harmoniously with the State House of Assembly to accelerate development and restore lost grounds, while serving with humility and dedication to God and the people.
The governor used the opportunity to thank Rivers citizens for their patience and resilience during the emergency rule, as well as traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, women, youths, and stakeholders whose support sustained the state through the difficult period.
Governor Fubara also appreciated the roles played by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Dr. Abbas Tajudeen, the National Assembly, as well as the Rivers State House of Assembly and respected elders in achieving reconciliation.
He concluded by calling on all Rivers people, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious differences, to join hands in rebuilding the state.
“Above all, our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future, urging citizens to channel their energies into fostering inclusiveness and prosperity” – he said,
The governor ended his broadcast with gratitude to God, prayers for Rivers State, and blessings for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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