Despite the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured residents that the turbulence will ultimately strengthen them rather than weaken them.
He made this declaration when he received Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, at his private residence in Port Harcourt during their Eid-el-Fitr Sallah visit.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, on Monday, Fubara acknowledged the political challenges but expressed strong faith that the state would overcome them.
Addressing the delegation, he urged them and his supporters to trust in God's process, emphasizing that the current crisis is leading toward a greater purpose.
He noted that this season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice and appreciated the Muslim leaders for their prayers and solidarity during this difficult time.
Fubara acknowledged that while the political tension might leave many feeling depressed, he believes supernatural forces are at play beyond human understanding.
He urged the people to remain steadfast, stating that in all things, they must give glory to God. He expressed confidence that, in the end, the people of Rivers State would emerge stronger from the crisis.
Reaffirming his commitment to justice, equality, and peaceful governance, Fubara stressed that his administration envisions a society free from oppression.
He maintained that standing on the side of truth and righteousness is more important than avoiding temporary pain. He also cautioned Rivers residents against falling prey to those seeking to incite violence, warning that certain individuals were deliberately trying to destabilize the state and deny people their means of livelihood.
According to him, their goal is to create problems, but his administration will not allow that to happen. He assured that his government would continue to operate peacefully, respect constituted authority, and ensure that Rivers State remains a model for others in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim Ummah, Nasir Uhor declared their solidarity with Fubara, assuring him of their prayers and support as he navigates the state’s current political challenges.
He stated that Muslims in Rivers State stand with Fubara because of his inclusive approach to governance, contrasting it with the previous administration, which declared Rivers a 100% Christian state.
Uhor further urged President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule in the state and restore Fubara’s full authority, emphasizing that the governor has been effectively leading despite the crisis.
Fubara acknowledged that he had been unable to formally reach out to the Muslim community during their celebrations but assured them that their pending requests would be addressed once the crisis subsides.
Urging patience and perseverance, he drew an analogy from religious history, saying that if God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in their struggle.
The meeting concluded with prayers for Fubara, his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole, as the governor remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.