Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has acknowledged feelings of depression amid the ongoing political crisis in the state, which recently led to a state of emergency being declared by President Bola Tinubu.
The governor made the admission while receiving a delegation of Muslim faithful who visited him at his private residence on Sallah homage.
Fubara was suspended for six months following the federal government’s intervention, with a sole administrator currently overseeing the state’s affairs. The crisis stems from a political fallout between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking during the visit, Fubara said:
“We assumed that I might feel a bit depressed because of the situation, maybe because of what we are seeing but might not understand.
But in everything, we have decided to give glory to the Almighty God, so in this season of sharing, love, sacrifice, I want you people to know that I key into your period of festivals.”
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to justice and inclusivity:
“You have said it already that our dreams and vision for this state is the society that no man should be oppressed.”
Fubara also urged restraint and warned residents against being provoked into violence.
“It’s a very important virtue in the cause of this struggle, please be patient and don’t allow anybody to push you into any form of provocation.
What they want is to destroy this state, what they want is to create problem, and deny you that means of livelihood that you have here and we will not allow it.”
He emphasized his administration’s continued dedication to peace and respect for the law.
“We will continue to operate in a peaceful manner and continue to respect every constituted authority to ensure that this state remains the envy of every other state in Nigeria.”
