Following his meeting in London with President Bola Tinubu, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on his supporters to adopt a less confrontational stance regarding the state’s political climate and to instead align with his strategic approach towards achieving lasting peace through restraint. Fubara emphasized that he is not eager to reclaim his position, addressing attendees who referred to him as ‘Governor’ and criticized his suspension, demanding an immediate reversal. ‘Do you even know if I want to go back there? My spirit has already left there,’ he remarked.
This counsel, as noted by source , appears to have dampened the high expectations and morale of his supporters. Following the Governor’s private discussions in London with President Bola Tinubu, there are suspicions among his supporters, analysts, and political observers in Rivers State that he may have been pressured into accepting unfavorable terms in the ongoing conflict with his former mentor, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking at a Night of Tributes organized by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum in memory of the late Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at the Royal House of Grace Church in Port Harcourt, Fubara remarked that some of his supporters’ comments and actions were unwarranted and contradicted his own beliefs and principles of seeking peace amid the political turmoil in the state.
He expressed concern about whether these individuals reflect on whether their chosen path truly leads to peace, stability, and reconciliation, and warned against actions that could heighten tensions in the state. He reaffirmed his awareness of the significant responsibilities he bears as a leader and his commitment to taking lawful actions necessary to restore order and advance the state.
Governor Fubara expressed that he now experiences tranquility and appears to be in better health, highlighting the significance of drawing motivation from the life and principles of the late Pa Clark, especially his dedication to peace, unity, personal sacrifice, and statesmanship. While reflecting on Pa Clark’s legacies, Governor Fubara lamented that some speakers strayed from the gathering’s intended purpose, calling for a focus on the lessons derived from Clark’s humanity, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to peace, truth, justice, equity, and fairness in the Niger Delta and Nigeria.
In his sermon, Apostle Zilly Aggrey referenced James 4:13-16; Hebrews 12:14-15; and Matthew 7:12, stressing that this period necessitates wisdom from all participants. He urged all political figures to reconcile with one another, asserting that only a united populace can overcome any potential adversaries. He expressed gratitude to former Governor and Minister of FCT, Chief Nyesom Wike, for his contribution to Governor Fubara’s election and encouraged him to pursue peace and reconciliation to restore normalcy in the State.
Additionally, he thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his paternal guidance during the political turmoil and requested more proactive measures to achieve lasting peace and reinstate democratic institutions in the State. Other speakers at the event included former Governor and Chairman of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, Chief Rufus Ada George, former Deputy Governor Sir Gabriel Toby, Senator Benneth Birabi, Prof Atuboyedia Obianime, Prof Steve Azaiki, Ms Ann Kio Briggs, Bishop Elkanah Hanson, Senator Andrew Uchendu, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, Prof Roseline Konya, and Senator John Azuta Mbata. Accompanying the Governor at the Night of Tributes were Senator John Azuta Mbata and Senator Adawari Michael.
The event featured remarks from various distinguished individuals, including the former Governor of the State and Chairman of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, Chief Rufus Ada George; the former Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby; Senator Benneth Birabi; Professors Atuboyedia Obianime and Steve Azaiki; Ms Ann Kio Briggs; Bishop Elkanah Hanson; Senator Andrew Uchendu; Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe; Professor Roseline Konya; and Senator John Azuta Mbata. Additionally, those who accompanied the Governor during the Night of Tributes included Senator John Azuta Mbata, Senator Adawari Michael Pepple, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka, Chief Hanny Woko, Dr Tammy Danagogo, Dr Edison Ehie, and Chief Theodore Georgewill. The occasion was also graced by Hon Awaji-Inombek Abiante, representing the Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, along with Hon Chikodi Dike and others.
