PRESS RELEASE BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE

My dear Rivers People,

I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.

We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.

Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.

This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.

Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court's judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.

These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.

Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.

Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.

Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.

At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.

We have always been resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.

God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sir, Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS

President Tinubu has just declared a state of emergency in Rivers State.

The Governor, Deputy Governor and all elected members of the House of Assembly are hereby suspended for 6 months.

Publicist, Dave of Africa, Weighs in on Lagos State Assembly Crisis, Advises Rivers State on Political Engagement

Port Harcourt-based publicist and media entrepreneur, Owudogu Tuetara Dave popularly known as Dave of Africa, has shared his thoughts on the ongoing political issues in the Lagos State House of Assembly. According to him, while the media has covered the developments extensively, public interest remains low, with Lagos residents showing little engagement in discussions or online debates.

Dave of Africa pointed out that there have been very few press releases from youth groups or political organizations regarding the matter.

He compared this to Rivers State, where political issues often spark widespread reactions, with multiple stakeholders, including activists and politicians, making public statements and amplifying the discourse.

"This is why Lagos continues to appear as if nothing bad is happening, when in reality, many damaging things are taking place," he stated. "The lack of public outcry allows issues to be swept under the rug, creating an illusion of stability while serious problems persist."

He further advised that Rivers State could learn from this approach. While it is important to hold leaders accountable, he noted that constantly over-amplifying political issues could work against the state's image and development.

"Striking a balance is key. Rivers people must ensure that issues are addressed effectively without creating unnecessary panic or giving the state a negative reputation," he added.

Dave of Africa’s perspective highlights a crucial difference in political engagement between the two states and raises questions about how public perception influences governance and accountability.

NigerDelta Insider

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on North Central Development Commission (NCDC), Senator Titus Zam, Benue North West (APC), has said that the NCDC will help rebuild the zone.

Sen Zam, who disclosed this during the funeral oration for the late Tyoor Augustine Azer Tingir, District Head of Saghev/Ukusu at Naka, Gwer West Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, further said the commission will also help tackle the challenges of insecurity facing north-central Nigeria.

Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) signed into law a bill establishing the NCDC on February 4, 2025. Senator Zam is the pioneer Senate Committee Chairman of the commission.

"With this commission, I know that there is somewhere to run to," Senator Zam told his audience, noting that a similar commission in the South and North East is developing the aforementioned regions.

According to the Benue North West Senator, the problems facing the zone will soon be tackled. He explained that by Tuesday next week, the budget for the commission will be presented before the National Assembly, and once passed, funding will be available for the commission to take off.

Already, political leaders in the zone have met to fine-tune arrangements for the NCDC's smooth takeoff.

Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, said after the meeting that the leaders met to chart "the best path forward for the NCDC to drive security, economic growth, and sustainable development across the North Central Zone in our collective quest to strengthen the region, provide lasting solutions to our challenges, and unlock opportunities for our people."

Credit: The News Times.

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