Suspended Rivers Governor Fubara Says He’s Willing to Sacrifice Everything for State’s Peace

Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has declared that he is prepared to make any sacrifice necessary to ensure peace, stability, and progress in the oil-rich state.

The embattled leader, who has faced months of political turmoil and was formally suspended from office following a federal declaration of emergency in March 2025, reaffirmed his position during a recent public engagement.

Speaking in Port Harcourt at an event organized by his supporters, Fubara stated, “There is no sacrifice too big to make for the peace, stability, and progress of our dear Rivers State. If stepping aside will restore harmony, then I will not hesitate. I’m not desperate for office.”

This reaffirmation of his earlier stance has drawn renewed attention to the lingering political crisis in Rivers State.

In March, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a six-month emergency rule in the state following escalating tensions between Governor Fubara and his predecessor and political rival, Nyesom Wike.

As part of that move, Tinubu suspended all democratic institutions in the state, including the governor, deputy governor, and state assembly, and appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator to oversee governance during the transitional period.

Fubara, however, has maintained that governance in the state has not stopped despite the suspension. “Rivers is peaceful.

We are paying salaries. We are continuing with our projects. We are governing,” he said during an earlier address. He has consistently appealed for calm, urging supporters and political actors to put the interest of the state above partisan agendas.

In an emotional reflection delivered at a university convocation event in December 2023—months before his suspension—Fubara had stated, “No amount is too big for peace. I will continue to pay it.” The remarks, initially perceived as a metaphorical statement of leadership humility, have taken on greater resonance as the political crisis deepens.

Throughout the crisis, the governor has received support from several civil society groups and youth movements in the state, many of whom describe the federal government’s intervention as “undemocratic” and a violation of the constitutional rights of Rivers people. Protests have occasionally erupted in Port Harcourt, calling for the reinstatement of the elected governor and legislature.

Meanwhile, opposition governors and political leaders have approached the Supreme Court to challenge the legality of the emergency declaration. The case, expected to be heard in the coming weeks, could set a major precedent for the limits of presidential powers in Nigeria’s federal structure.

Despite the high political stakes, Fubara has consistently struck a conciliatory tone. At an event marking the second anniversary of his administration’s inauguration, he expressed optimism that reconciliation was possible.

“We are working quietly, patiently, and prayerfully. Very soon, we will see democratic governance fully restored in Rivers,” he said.

Fubara’s declaration that he is willing to step down if it brings peace has fueled speculation that he may ultimately resign before the end of his tenure. However, close aides insist that he remains focused on governance and is committed to seeing the crisis resolved through dialogue and legal means.

As Rivers State continues to navigate a delicate political transition, Fubara’s latest remarks are being seen by many as a call for calm and an invitation to all sides to prioritize unity over power struggles.

Whether that message will resonate across political lines—and lead to a lasting resolution—remains to be seen.