By Uche Amunike
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on those aggrieved as a result of the state’s recent political turbulence, to lay down their grievances and unite for the collective goal of the people of the state.
Fubara, who made this statement during the mid-term of his administration on May 29, 2025, called for retreat and surrender on the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, stating that the only precious commodity in the market presently was unity and cooperation, which is critical to achieving transformational growth for the state.
He also assured residents that every decision made will make their welfare and the state’s enduring prosperity a priority, even as he called on those still bearing the weight of the recent political struggles to come together and focus on the shared goal of progress and unity.
The Rivers State Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas has also expressed hope that the present political crisis in Rivers State would be resolved only through dialogue, adding that it was a mere political disagreement and not a perennial conflict.
Speaking, during an event marking the 58th anniversary of the creation of Rivers State at the Government House in Port Harcourt, he described the current crisis as a political issue that could be addressed through negotiations instead of confrontation.
His words: ‘I believe this crisis is not beyond resolution. It is a political disagreement, not a war. And as with most conflicts, no matter how long or bloody, negotiations often provide the path to peace.’
He further cited global examples where long-standing political conflicts and wars were resolved only when courageous leaders preferred dialogue over discord, reiterating that the resolution does not always mean that differences are not there but rather, that leaders choose to shift their positions for the greater good.
He also called for sober reflection and lamented that the current situation in Rivers State did not reflect the ideals put in place by the founding fathers of the state. He maintained that the people of Rivers State are watching and deserve leadership that works for their interests, also stressing how important it was for leaders to put the interest of the people above personal ambitions, while challenging them to take responsibility for the situation and work together for the greater good of the state.
He commended the decision of President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state and called it a timely intervention that averted what he described as impending anarchy.
He further criticized some elders and religious leaders who took sides in the crisis instead of offering constructive intervention.
He further stated: ‘I wonder where these commentators were when politicians exploited the situation for personal gain.’
He urged all citizens to reflect on the actions and inactions that led to the present crisis and highlighted the strategic importance of Rivers State, stating that it ranked second only to Lagos in economic inputs and contributed about 40% of Nigeria’s onshore oil production, reminding citizens that the state was significant to the national economy and the need for unity to preserve it is important.
Ibas reflected on his tenure as Sole Administrator, expressing gratitude for the support of the Rivers State people, stating that serving the state had remained one of the greatest honors of his life.
