PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA – Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on his supporters to desist from staging protests or engaging in confrontational actions purportedly on his behalf, as political tensions continue to simmer in the state.
Speaking during a solemn event on Sunday — Pa Edwin Clark’s Night of Tribute held in Port Harcourt — Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of dialogue and peace over conflict, stating that many actions taken in his name risk undermining the ongoing peace process in Rivers State.
🔊 “My Spirit Has Left Government House,” Fubara Declares
In a statement that stunned observers, the embattled governor revealed his growing disconnection from the ongoing political struggle, saying:
“Do you know if I want to return as governor? My spirit has left the Government House long ago. Seek my consent before taking any action for my sake.”
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Governor Fubara further remarked that the personal toll of political battles has been heavy:
“Can’t you see how better I look? If I had my way, I wouldn’t want to go back there. There are some fights you don’t need to fight. Let’s focus.”
⚠️ Appeal Against Protests
The governor’s comments come amid mounting calls for civil demonstrations by his loyalists, who are reportedly mobilizing against what they claim is a creeping plan to impose emergency rule in the oil-rich state.
However, Fubara made it clear that:
- Confrontation is not the solution
- Protests may disrupt the fragile peace process
- All actions must be guided by consent and strategy, not emotion
“We don’t need a confrontational approach. We need to embrace dialogue for the peace process to work,” he said.
🧩 Background: Rivers Political Crisis
Rivers State has been engulfed in a protracted political crisis involving:
- Power tussles between Governor Fubara and his political godfather, former Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike
- Allegations of attempted impeachment
- Parallel legislative factions within the Rivers State House of Assembly
- Rumours of a possible declaration of emergency rule due to political instability
The crisis escalated in recent weeks following the breakdown of a peace deal brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023.
🕊️ A Call for Calm and Strategy
Governor Fubara’s recent comments signal a shift in tone from open political confrontation to strategic withdrawal and appeal for calm. His remarks also hint at a growing fatigue with the burdens of executive power amidst constant political warfare.
📌 What This Means for Rivers State
- Uncertainty over Fubara’s political future grows, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- His latest remarks may signal a voluntary resignation, internal pressure, or re-strategizing behind closed doors.
- The fragile peace in Rivers remains at risk if supporters ignore the governor’s call for restraint.
🔍 Analysts’ Take
Political analysts have described Fubara’s tone as reflective and deliberate, possibly meant to de-escalate tensions and realign support.
“The governor’s statement suggests deep political weariness and perhaps an intention to reshape the narrative,” said Dr. Nelson Nwogu, a political science lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt.
“He may be stepping back publicly to either strengthen private negotiations or send a message to his opponents.”
🧾 What you should know
As political tension continues to brew in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s unexpected emotional appeal has thrown a fresh twist into the unfolding crisis. While his supporters are eager to defend his mandate, the governor is urging for calm, maturity, and a non-confrontational path forward.
Whether this will cool tempers or further complicate the crisis remains to be seen.
