Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, has sternly warned against political thuggery and acts of violence threatening the state’s stability, particularly following recent attacks that led to the burning of several local government secretariats.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of four new commissioners at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Fubara underscored his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and order.
Addressing the assembly, Governor Fubara expressed his determination to collaborate closely with the Nigerian Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to identify and bring to justice those responsible for the violent attacks in Ikwerre, Emohua, and Eleme Local Government Areas.
The recent spate of violence erupted after the swearing-in of newly elected local government chairpersons on October 6, 2024, where Fubara had previously warned of potential unrest from disgruntled individuals.
The new commissioners inducted into the Rivers State Executive Council are Hon. Israel Lebura Ngbuelu, PhD, Hon. Evans Bapakaye Bipi, Barrister Otamiri John Ngubo, and Hon. Barrister Benibo Anabraba.
Fubara welcomed them, emphasizing the need for dedication, loyalty, and diligence in their roles to support the administration’s objectives.
Reflecting on the recent turmoil, Fubara stated, “I had foreseen this unrest. Some individuals, unhappy with the election outcome, are going to great lengths to disrupt peace in Rivers State.” He condemned the actions of those who burned council buildings, labeling them as architects of violence and anarchy.
Fubara reiterated his unwavering commitment to peaceful leadership, urging residents to remain calm and law-abiding.
“We are carrying a basket of precious eggs, and we must handle it with care and wisdom,” he remarked, emphasizing that retaliation and violence would only lead to further losses for the state.
“The governor is the architect of the violence,” he asserted, holding the current leadership accountable for the instability.
In addition to addressing the immediate security concerns, Governor Fubara tackled the persistent issue of oil theft, warning that unchecked pipeline vandalism and theft could severely impact Nigeria’s economy.
He called for collective action to enhance oil production and secure pipelines, noting that current oil revenues are insufficient to meet the nation’s needs.
“Our focus must remain on curbing oil theft and ensuring pipeline security. Only then will revenues increase, allowing us to fund critical development projects for Rivers State,” he stated.
Despite the ongoing political crisis, Fubara assured the public of significant progress on various state projects and services. He hinted at the unveiling of several impactful initiatives by the end of October 2024, promising that these developments would showcase the administration’s dedication to improving the lives of Rivers State residents.
Concluding his address, Governor Fubara congratulated the newly appointed commissioners and expressed confidence in their ability to contribute to the administration’s success.
“I thank my colleagues for rising against the age-long discrimination of the House, which we have corrected through these collective efforts,” he affirmed, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving the state’s governance.
