By Oke Akpurugo, Port Harcourt
RIVERS: Embattled suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has called for calm in the state following the declaration of State of Emergency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday as the political crisis in the oil – rich Niger Delta State became intractable and a threat to national security.
Military trucks moved into Rivers Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday night minutes after Governor Siminalayi Fubara stealthily left the place, according to sources.
The trucks were placed within and outside the prescinct of the Government House the State of emergency declared by President Tinubu.
Fubara who spoke from a yet – to -be ascertained location after soldiers poured into Rivers State capital, in a statement he personally signed, hinted of taking every necessary step, and may include court action, to strengthen democracy.
“We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.”
In the statement titled, “Press Release by the Executive Governor of Rivers State,” the suspended governor accused members of the state Assembly loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Ezenwon Wike of stymieing all his attempts to comply with the verdict of the Supreme Court.
Fubara said, “My dear Rivers People, I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.
“Since assuming office as your governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.
“We prioritised the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear state.
“Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.
“This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.
“Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgment to return the state to normalcy.
“These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.
“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.
“Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
“Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the state forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.
“At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.
“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.”
