- Suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara reassured residents that the political crisis would make them stronger
- Fubara met with Muslim leaders to discuss peace while acknowledging security threats
- Fubara further drew parallels with religious history, urging his supporters not to fall into violence amid the ongoing political turmoil
The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has reassured residents that despite the ongoing political turmoil, the challenges faced by the state will ultimately strengthen the people rather than weaken them.
In a heartfelt message of encouragement, Fubara urged his supporters to remain unwavering in their faith, saying: “We will emerge stronger.”
The suspended governor’s words came during a Sallah visit from Muslim leaders, including representatives from 20 Islamic-based groups such as the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, who called on him at his private residence in Port Harcourt on Monday.
Addressing the Muslim delegation, Fubara spoke about the importance of trusting in God’s process.
He reminded them that this season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. He expressed gratitude for the leaders’ prayers, which he believes are helping guide the state through its current trials.
“As Christians, we believe everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe this situation is leading us to a greater purpose,” Fubara said, acknowledging that the political crisis may leave many feeling disheartened.
However, he emphasised that there may be supernatural forces at play beyond human understanding.
Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice and equality.
“We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness,” he stressed.
Despite being unable to formally reach out to the Muslim Ummah during their celebrations, Fubara promised that the relationship between religious groups and the government would be strengthened once the ongoing uncertainties are resolved.
He also assured the Muslim leaders that their pending requests would be addressed after the political crisis.
Drawing a parallel from religious history, Fubara reminded everyone of the need for patience, citing the story of Noah’s Ark and the patience of God.
“If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle,” he said.
However, Fubara urged his supporters not to fall into the trap set by those seeking to create violence in the state.
“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their livelihoods. We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully and respect constituted authority to ensure our state remains a model for others in Nigeria,” he added.
Rivers Political Turmoil: Ex-HoS refutes kidnapping claim as Fubara dismisses bombing allegation
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that former Rivers State Head of Service, George Nwaeke, refuted his wife’s claims that he was kidnapped, stating that she was misled into reading a scripted statement.
Nwaeke’s wife publicly called on the governor for help, fearing that her husband was under duress and unable to speak freely.
