President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state’s House of Assembly members. In response, Fubara has urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that his leadership has always prioritized the protection of lives and property, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the state’s progress.
Fubara expressed shock over the decision, insisting that the state remains secure and peaceful. He emphasized that despite political disagreements, his administration has continued to pay salaries and execute projects to move the state forward. Fubara also highlighted his willingness to implement peace agreements, including reinstating commissioners who had previously resigned, and complying with a Supreme Court ruling to restore normalcy.
The governor accused the pro-Wike faction in the state legislature of obstructing efforts to stabilize the state. He reassured Rivers residents, calling on them to remain law-abiding and steadfast. Fubara vowed to handle the situation with wisdom, patience, and firm belief in democracy.
In a related development, heavily armed soldiers have taken over the Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt, with Governor Fubara still inside his residence when the troops arrived.
