Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured residents that the current political crisis will ultimately make the state stronger, not weaker.
His statement comes as Rivers faces a political conflict allegedly fueled by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
The crisis has led to the six-month suspension of elected officials and the appointment of Ibok-ete Ibas as the sole administrator to replace Fubara under an emergency rule.
Fubara made the remarks while receiving Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, at his private residence in Port Harcourt during an Eid-El-Fitr visit.
Addressing the delegation, Governor Fubara encouraged them and his supporters to trust in divine guidance.
“This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made a great sacrifice through your prayers. As Christians, we believe that everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe that this situation is leading us toward a greater purpose,” he said.
He acknowledged the hardship caused by the crisis but urged people to remain hopeful, emphasizing that unseen forces might be at play beyond human understanding.
“No matter what we see, we must remain steadfast. In all things, we give glory to Almighty God. I believe that in the end, we will emerge stronger,” he added.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equality, stressing that his administration stands for fairness and righteousness.
“We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness,” he stated.
Apologizing for not reaching out to the Muslim community earlier in their celebrations, he assured them that their relationship with the government would improve once the political uncertainties are resolved.
He also urged patience, drawing from religious history: “If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle.”
Governor Fubara warned supporters to avoid falling into the trap of those seeking to incite violence.
“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their means of livelihood. We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully and respect constitutional authority to ensure that our state remains a model for others in Nigeria,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor expressed their solidarity with Governor Fubara, assuring him of their prayers and support.
He noted that the majority of Muslims in Rivers State back Fubara due to his inclusive approach to governance, unlike the previous administration, which declared Rivers a 100% Christian state.
Encouraging the governor to remain steadfast, Uhor reminded him that patience is rewarded in Islam. He emphasized that the current challenges align with Islamic teachings, where power and authority are tests from Allah.
He further called on President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule and restore Fubara’s full authority, arguing that the governor has remained effective despite the crisis.
The visit concluded with prayers for Governor Fubara, his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria.
