According to Vanguard, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has attributed the resolution of the state’s prolonged political crisis to divine intervention, emphasizing that God halted those responsible for the turmoil. The governor made these remarks at a Christmas Ballad hosted by former Governor Peter Odili at his residence in Old GRA, Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara highlighted the role of faith and resilience in overcoming the political hurdles that have plagued Rivers State since October 2023. “I get stronger in this course every day when I look at the support I am getting from the true Rivers people. My strength is drawn from everyone here. You gave me encouragement; you do the work for me; you make the calls for me. So, why won’t I stand up for you?” Fubara stated.
He further emphasized that ultimate victory lies in God’s hands. “The ultimate game changer, the ultimate Liberator, and the ultimate fighter still remain God Almighty. And because we have Him on our side, victory is assured. We will continue to run a government that will uplift the image of the state. We will not be tyrants,” he added.
In his address, former Governor Peter Odili praised Fubara’s steadfastness and leadership qualities during the crisis. Odili described the political conflict as an “existential fight for the soul of Rivers State” and commended Fubara for resisting attempts to turn the state into a personal estate.
“It is now over 12 months since October 25, 2023, when a fierce existential fight, though unnecessary, was waged against Governor Fubara over the soul of Rivers State. With assuring fortitude, Governor Fubara confronted the challenge, prevented the quest by one man to capture the state as a private estate, steadied governance, and made civil servants and Rivers people happier,” Odili said.
Governor Fubara also stressed the importance of regional collaboration among South-South governors to drive sustainable development. During a meeting with Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Fubara called for a stronger BRACED Commission—a regional body comprising Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, and Delta States.
“The only way we can address regional challenges, including crime and infrastructural development, is through synergy across the South-South states. Solving Rivers State’s problems alone will not stop criminals from moving to neighboring states and returning later. We must collaborate effectively,” Fubara said.
Governor Diri praised the peaceful relationship between Bayelsa and Rivers States, particularly highlighting the resolution of the long-standing dispute over the Soku oil wells. Both governors confirmed that their Attorneys General have been tasked with overseeing the process to maintain peace and mutual respect.