I Ruled Rivers Constitutionally, Fubara insists
Barikui Felix
Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara has stated that since his inception of office, he had governed the state in accordance with the constitution and sense of duty.
Fubara, who stated this in his message to Rivers people following the state-of-emergency declaration in the state by President Bola Tinubu as a result of the unresolved political crisis rocking the state, said he prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of the state.
Recall that President Tinubu had stated that there was no governance in Rivers State and had accused Fubara of lawlessness and disobedience to the rule of law.
Fubara however, described the emergency declaration as a gloomy and an unfortunate moment in the state’s political history.
He said despite the political impasse, he ensured constitutional order and the rule of and putting interest of the state above personal interest.
“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 prioritized 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,” Fubara stated.
Fubara further stated that he made every move to implement the Supreme Court ruling but on every occasion, he was frustrated by the now ousted Rivers State House of Assembly.
“Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement 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,” he added.
Fubara explained further that desire the crisis, salaries of workers, pensioners and others were being paid regularly and projects being commissioned.
He however, urged people of the state to remain resilient and law-abiding while efforts continues to ensure that democratic rule returns to the state.
“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,” he said.
