Despite the ongoing political unrest in Rivers State, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured residents that the situation will ultimately unite and strengthen them rather than weaken their resolve.
During an Eid-el-Fitri visit at his private residence in Port Harcourt, Fubara addressed a delegation of Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based organizations, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs. He acknowledged the turbulence but emphasized that Rivers State would not be shaken by those attempting to incite violence.
"Some forces are working hard to create chaos and deprive our people of their means of livelihood," Fubara noted. "But we will not let them succeed."
Fubara, speaking with conviction, urged his supporters to hold on to faith, trust in divine guidance, and remain steadfast in the face of adversity.
"This season is about love, sacrifice, and sharing. You have come to share in our challenges and have shown great solidarity through your prayers," he told the delegation.
He reassured the people of Rivers State that, despite the uncertainty, justice and fairness remain at the core of his administration’s vision.
"We believe in an equal society where no one is oppressed. If standing for what is right comes with challenges, so be it. Truth will always prevail," he stated.
Acknowledging the frustrations that come with political instability, Fubara encouraged patience, drawing from historical and religious parallels.
"If God could wait for even the slowest creatures to board Noah’s Ark, then patience remains a virtue we must embrace in this struggle," he remarked.
He also warned residents against falling for the schemes of individuals seeking to destabilize the state, urging them to avoid engaging in violence.
"Their aim is clear—to create disorder and strip people of their livelihoods. We won’t let that happen. We will continue to operate peacefully while upholding the rule of law," he affirmed.
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, Nasir Uhor expressed unwavering support for Fubara. He acknowledged the governor’s inclusive approach to governance, contrasting it with previous administrations that had declared Rivers a purely Christian state.
"Unlike before, we now see recognition and respect for the Islamic faith. The majority of Muslims in Rivers stand with Governor Fubara because he values inclusivity," Uhor stated.
He further called on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the emergency rule in the state and restore Fubara’s full authority, emphasizing that the governor has continued to perform effectively despite the challenges.
The visit concluded with prayers for Fubara, his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.