The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has asserted that despite the prevailing political challenges facing his administration, the people of Rivers State will ultimately emerge stronger. He urged citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding in the collective interest of the state.
The Governor, therefore, appealed to his numerous supporters and all well-meaning Rivers people not to be discouraged by recent developments but to stay optimistic, affirming that God, having established his administration, would not allow it to be derailed midway.
Governor Fubara made these remarks during the inauguration of the Palace of Nyeweali Akpor Kingdom and an impressive residential quarters for the King, Eze Levi Amos Oriebe. The project, constructed and furnished by his administration, was unveiled on Monday at Ozuoba in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
The Governor criticised those seeking to disrupt governance through political conflict, describing their actions as misguided. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and cautioned against any form of lawlessness.
“I want to speak to our numerous supporters. I know that while some of you are still encouraged, others feel disheartened. However, I want to assure you of one undeniable truth: God does not initiate a journey and abandon it halfway.
“No matter how difficult the situation appears today, I assure you that we will emerge even stronger and better. Continue to follow my example, which remains a commitment to peace. We must prioritise peace because, in the event of unrest, we will be the ones who suffer the most.
“Our dedication to this state is not for personal gain but for the overall welfare of Rivers State. Therefore, I appeal to every one of you to abide by the law. I will not condone any form of disobedience or violence. However, that does not mean we will condone wrongdoing. We will never support injustice,” the Governor declared.
Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance and assured that he would not waver in his promise to implement meaningful and people-centred development projects.
“Our projects and services will continue to be those that truly resonate with our people, impacting their lives and wellbeing. Regardless of the challenges we face, we will not deviate from the commitments we have made to the good people of Rivers State,” he affirmed.
Reflecting on the significance of the palace project, Governor Fubara described it as historic, noting that the Akpor Kingdom had lacked a befitting palace for over 200 years.
He recalled that during the flag-off ceremony for the reconstruction of the Okania-Ogbogoro Road project ten months ago, he had made a promise to the people to build the palace, which was successfully completed within six months of the contract being awarded.
The Governor recounted, “I was deeply moved, even to the point of shedding a few tears, when the Royal Father spoke and mentioned that the Akpor Kingdom, despite existing for over 200 years, had never had a palace.
“But God does not make mistakes. Perhaps He destined our administration to fulfil this need so that we could forever be part of Akpor Kingdom’s history.
“We did not just construct the palace; we also built a personal residence for the Nyeweali, recognising that while the palace belongs to the community, the King’s family would eventually require separate accommodation.
“After living in such a grand residence, what happens to the King’s family once his tenure ends? We had to ensure he had a home. This project was not merely about the palace; we went further by providing the King with his own personal residence, allowing him to continue enjoying the comfort he has now, even after his reign.”
Governor Fubara expressed gratitude to the people of Akpor for bestowing upon him the chieftaincy title of “Eze Omenma 1 of Akpor Kingdom.” He pledged to uphold the honour and reassured the people of Obio/Akpor, who have been steadfast in their support, that they hold a strategic place in his administration.
Inaugurating the palace, the Eze Oha Apara (IV) and Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, His Majesty, Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, recalled that a few months ago, his own kingdom also benefited from Governor Fubara’s administration through the construction of a magnificent palace.
Eze Worlu-Wodo, who also serves as the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, explained the rationale behind the government’s investment in palaces for traditional rulers, noting that they play a crucial role in maintaining peace and order at the grassroots level, thereby facilitating governance.
“Traditional rulers serve as vital links in ensuring harmony and stability within communities, making governance more effective at the state level,” he remarked.
“A friend and colleague from Calabar once said that showing respect for traditional rulers and elders reflects good upbringing. Our Governor exemplifies this.
“I am honoured to be here, Your Excellency, witnessing your display of goodwill, respect, and commitment to the traditional institution. You have done exceedingly well, and we are all proud of you,” the Royal Father said.
Eze Worlu-Wodo further acknowledged the numerous developmental projects Governor Fubara’s administration has undertaken across the state and advised him not to be unsettled by the current political tensions.
“God is in control of this state, and the schemes of those who wish to cause harm will not succeed,” he assured.
Providing details of the palace project, the Rivers State Commissioner for Special Projects, Dr Rowland Obed-Whyte, revealed that the contract was awarded in August 2024 and completed within six months.
“The palace complex spans 9,000 square metres, enclosed by an electrified perimeter fence. The palace itself is a duplex with two wings. The right wing includes a guest room for the King, a 120-seat multipurpose hall, a 50-seat conference hall, offices, and public conveniences.
“The left wing houses the royal ranch, bar, dining area, kitchen, and laundry facilities. At the rear of the palace is a royal garden, a traditional meeting space (Obiri), a royal car park, a visitors’ lodge, a water tank, and a fountain,” he explained.
