Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has announced plans to resume full duties at the Brick House (Government House), reversing his earlier stance of staying away from the seat of power amid the prolonged political crisis in the state.
Speaking in Port Harcourt on Thursday during a meeting with leaders of the Simplified Movement to mark his two years in office, Fubara praised President Bola Tinubu for his swift intervention to avert what he described as looming anarchy in the state.
“I want you to thank Mr President for his timely intervention to salvage the situation and stabilise the polity and the state. If not for Mr President, the story today would have been different,” Fubara stated.
He noted that a peace and reconciliation process has commenced to restore both the Executive and Legislative arms of government in Rivers, assuring that both branches would soon return to working harmoniously.
“I want to assure you that the issues will soon be resolved, and you will come back to your offices… I also believe that the strong relationships we had before will return,” he said. “What is important is for us to have a forgiving spirit.”
Fubara urged supporters to fully commit to the reconciliation effort, emphasizing that personal interests must be set aside for the good of the state. He expressed regret over how the political tension had disrupted planned celebrations and progress, but pledged that his administration would emerge stronger.
In a clear shift from earlier tensions, the governor also expressed willingness to reconcile with his former political mentor and predecessor, now FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. “There is no reason why there will not be peace between me and my Oga,” he said. “There will be peace. We are meeting. We will reconcile.”
Fubara thanked Rivers residents and Nigerians who stood by him during the crisis, and also appealed for forgiveness from anyone disillusioned by his handling of the situation.
“One important thing in this life is respect. I want to earn the respect of the people, not force it on them,” he stated.
What you should know
Governor Fubara is set to return fully to Rivers Government House as reconciliation efforts with political rivals progress, following President Tinubu’s intervention. He promises renewed unity, stability, and a commitment to good governance.
