By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that all parties involved in the state’s recent political crisis have agreed to put aside their differences and embrace peace in the overall interest of the state.
In his first statewide broadcast on Friday after resuming office from a six-month suspension under emergency rule, Fubara said the hard lessons of the turbulent period must now give way to unity, reconciliation, and a renewed focus on governance.
Rivers State was placed under emergency rule by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025, leading to the suspension of democratic institutions. Former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), was appointed Sole Administrator during the period until the president ordered the governor and lawmakers back to office on September 17.
Fubara noted that while the emergency era was “enormously challenging,” he chose not to contest the president’s decision, stressing that no sacrifice was too great for the peace and stability of Rivers State.
“This was why I resisted pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions,” he said. “Our Leader, His Excellency, Nyesom Wike, all members of the House of Assembly and I, as your Governor, have all accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State.”
The governor emphasized that the responsibility now rests on government institutions, political leaders, and stakeholders to ensure the peace endures. He urged citizens to rise above bitterness and division, describing unity as the strongest guarantee of the state’s future.
While reaffirming his loyalty and gratitude to President Tinubu for restoring democratic governance, Fubara assured Rivers people that his administration would immediately return to the path of development by completing ongoing projects and prioritizing the welfare of the people.
“To those who still have fears or doubts, nothing has been irretrievably lost,” he said. “This is a fresh beginning. The costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.”
He also expressed appreciation to Rivers people, religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and others whose support sustained the state during the six-month impasse.
“As Rivers people, our diversity is our strength,” Fubara concluded. “Let us join hands, rebuild trust, and work together to secure a peaceful and prosperous state for all.”