Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State emphasized the significant contribution of Opobo to the history of the Ijaw struggle, affirming his identity as a genuine son of the Ijaw people.
This declaration occurred during his meeting with the Regent and representatives of Kalabari Se Kobiri at the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Friday.
Fubara strongly rebutted assertions from certain quarters labeling him as a non-Ijaw, dismissing such claims as stemming from a lack of understanding of the historical background that solidifies the Ijaw heritage.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s media aide, Boniface Onyedi, Fubara highlighted the indispensable role played by Opobo, Bonny, and Kalabari in the Ijaw narrative, particularly in the historical trade lines that marked genuine Ijaw connections.
The governor asserted, “Whoever is feeding you with that information should go back to their history classes. You cannot talk about the Ijaw struggle without the Opobo, the Bonny, and the Kalabari. We had our trade lines at that time, and for you to occupy a trade line, it means you are a true Ijaw man. So, for the records, I am a full-blooded, up to my bones, an Ijaw man.”
Highlighting the courage and resilience of the Ijaw people in the face of historical adversity, Fubara emphasized the unwavering spirit of the Ijaw, emphasizing that only God’s will prevails in every circumstance, whether favorable or challenging.
Expressing condolences over the demise of the late King Theophilus J.T. Princewill of the Kalabari Kingdom, the governor assured the community of the government’s participation in the funeral rites. He urged unity among the people to accord the late king a dignified burial.
In response, the regent of Kalabari kingdom, Dr. Charles Princewill, conveyed the news of the monarch’s passing and formally invited the governor to attend the funeral. He acknowledged Fubara’s support and appealed for further assistance.
The Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, commended Governor Fubara’s support and commitment toward ensuring a fitting burial for the late Amanyanabo, underscoring the governor’s dedication to the Kalabari people.
