By Newsmata
The Rivers State Government has expressed shock that President Bola Tinubu decided to suspend only Governor Siminalayi Fubara while allowing his Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and immediate past governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, described as “the principal actor” in the crisis in the state, to remain in office.
In a statement in Port Harcourt by the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Warisenibo Joe Johnson, the government viewed the development as unjust, noting that Governor Fubara had remained committed to constitutional order, peace, and good governance despite the political turbulence in the state.
Chronicling Fubara’s efforts at fostering genuine peace, Johnson stated that since assuming office, Fubara had prioritised the protection of lives and property while ensuring the progress of Rivers State, stressing that even in the face of political instability, the governor upheld his constitutional duties and put the interests of the people above personal or political considerations.
He said following President Tinubu’s intervention to broker peace, the Rivers State Government implemented the agreed terms in good faith, including reinstating commissioners who had previously resigned. “Furthermore, the government swiftly complied with the Supreme Court’s ruling upon receiving the certified true copy of the judgment, demonstrating a commitment to legal and democratic processes”.
Johnson however lamented that despite these efforts, lawmakers loyal to Wike, a former governor of the state, continued to obstruct peace and stability and expressed surprise that while Fubara had been removed, Wike, the principal actor in the crisis, remained in office.
He said, “It is shocking that Mr. President sacked the governor and left his minister, who is the principal actor”.
Reassuring the people of Rivers State, Johnson emphasized that “governance remains effective despite political challenges. Salaries have been paid, developmental projects are ongoing, and the state remains secure”.
The government, at this critical time, called on Rivers residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding while reaffirming its commitment to engaging with all relevant institutions to uphold democracy and ensure that Rivers State continues to thrive.
Johnson noted, “We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process”.
The Rivers State Government insisted that it would continue to prioritise the well-being and prosperity of its citizens while navigating the unfolding political situation.