Suspended Rivers Governor Fubara Reflects on His Two Years in Office
Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, in a statement on May 29 to mark his second year in office, acknowledged the “daunting political challenges” that have tested his administration’s resolve.
The governor’s tenure has been marred by a protracted power struggle with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Federal Capital Territory Minister. This rift culminated in a series of events that disrupted the state’s political landscape.
In December 2023, 27 lawmakers defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to legal battles over the legitimacy of their positions . Although a Rivers State High Court initially declared their seats vacant, the Court of Appeal later nullified this decision, citing jurisdictional issues.
The political discord reached a zenith in March 2025 when Governor Fubara was reportedly locked out of the State Assembly complex while attempting to present the 2025 budget. This incident underscored the deep-seated tensions between the executive and legislative arms of the state government.
Further complicating the state’s political climate, the Supreme Court nullified the local government elections conducted on October 5, 2024, declaring them invalid . Amidst these challenges, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025, suspending Governor Fubara and the state legislature for six months. This unprecedented move was justified by the federal government as necessary to address escalating political instability and pipeline vandalism, although critics have labeled it an overreach of executive power.
Despite these setbacks, Governor Fubara remains resolute. In his anniversary speech, he stated;
“I reaffirm my pledge to consolidate on our gains and remain fully committed to the key priorities of this administration: peace, security, community welfare, and the socio-economic advancement of our State.” He appealed for unity, urging stakeholders to “turn the page, come together, and focus on our shared goal of progress and unity.”
Here is the Full Text below:
OUR JOURNEY: CHALLENGING BUT PROGRESSIVE AND IMPACTFUL!
My dear good people of Rivers State,
Today marks exactly two years since I took the oath of office as your 7th democratically-elected Governor. On May 29, 2023, I was sworn in following the clear and overwhelming mandate you gave me during the March 18, 2023 elections. Once again, I thank you for the trust, honour, and privilege to lead our beloved State.
In the past two years, our political landscape has undergone significant changes. Despite the turbulence, I have remained steadfast and focused, guided by the oath I took and the solemn promise I made to always put Rivers State first. I pledged to protect and promote our collective interests and ensure you e n joy the real dividends of democracy and good governance. That commitment remains unshaken.
While we have faced daunting political challenges that have, at times, slowed our pace, these two years have not been without meaningful progress. I am proud of the visible milestones we have achieved, modest but significant strides in healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, human capital development, and the inclusion of women in governance.
These achievements would not have been possible without your unwavering support and hope in the brighter future we all envision for Rivers State. For your sacrifices, contributions, and the roles you’ve played in your respective capacities, I say a heartfelt thank you.
As we look ahead, I reaffirm my pledge to consolidate on our gains and remain fully committed to the key priorities of this administration: peace, security, community welfare, and the socio-economic advancement of our State. Though our momentum may have been affected by political circumstances, our focus remains clear, and we are determined to emerge stronger, more united, and more result-oriented.
Your support has emboldened me to press on and not to retreat, but to work harder to foster peace, reconcil i ation, and forgiveness. These are essential to restoring normalcy and delivering transformational infrastructure, impactful programmes, and life-changing services across the State.
We are at a crucial point in our journey, where difficult decisions must be made. Be assured that every step we take will be guided by your best interests and the enduring good of Rivers State.
As we reflect on the lessons of the past two years, I am hopeful for what lies ahead. I look forward to working hand in hand with all of you to build a State we can all be proud of: a RIVERS STATE that stands as a model for the rest of Nigeria.
To those still carrying the weight of our recent political struggles, I appeal to you, let us turn the page, come together, and focus on our shared goal of progress and unity. The time to rebuild and rise is now.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to serve.
God bless Rivers State.
Signed: His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS
Governor Rivers State
Thursday, May 29, 2025
