BREAKING: State of emergency: Fubara breaks silence, vows to uphold democracy (FULL TEXT)

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has reacted to the state of emergency declared in the South-South state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

IDOMA VOICE reports that President Tinubu, on Tuesday evening, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the need to restore law and order.

The declaration, made during a nationwide broadcast, led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.

As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.

Reacting to his suspension, Governor Fubara called on the people of Rivers State to remain calm.

Full Speech by Governor Siminalayi Fubara

BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE

My dear Rivers People,

I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and composure as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

Since assuming office as your governor, my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath and a profound sense of duty.

We have prioritized the protection of lives and property while ensuring the continuous progress of our dear state.

Even in the face of political challenges, we have remained committed to upholding constitutional order and the rule of law, always putting the interests of our people first.

This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including reinstating commissioners who had previously resigned of their own volition.

Furthermore, we swiftly complied with the Supreme Court’s judgment as soon as we received the certified true copy, taking steps to restore normalcy in the state.

These actions were taken not for personal gain but to foster peace, unity, and stability in our dear state.

Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have frustrated our efforts, making genuine peace and progress difficult.

Our priorities have remained the security of lives and property, as well as the advancement of the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.

Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance has continued—salaries have been paid, and significant projects have been executed to move the state forward. Above all, Rivers State has remained safe, secure, and peaceful under our watch.

At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.

We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.

God bless Rivers State.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS