Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Monday, assured residents of the state that the ongoing political crisis will ultimately strengthen rather than weaken them.
Fubara also accused unnamed persons of labouring to instigate violence in the state in their attempt to deny the people their means of livelihood, vowing not to allow this to happen.
The suspended governor spoke 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 an Eid-el-Fitri Sallah visit, according to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.
Fubara while addressing the delegation, urged them and his supporters to trust in God’s process.
He said, “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.”
Fubara noted that the current political tension might leave many feeling depressed, stressing that supernatural forces may 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.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equality, stressing that his administration envisions a society where no one is oppressed.
He added, “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 regretted that he was unable to formally reach out to the Muslim Ummah during their celebrations, but promised that the relationship between religious groups and the government would be strengthened once the current uncertainties are resolved.
Fubara also assured the leaders that their pending requests would be addressed after the crisis subsides.
Urging patience and perseverance, Fubara drew an analogy from religious history, saying, “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.”
He also cautioned against falling prey to those who want to engineer violence by fanning provocative acts, warning his supporters and Rivers people to avoid certain elements who sought to destabilise the state.
“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 constituted authority to ensure that our state remains a model for others in Nigeria,” he noted.
Speaking earlier 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.
Uhor stated that the majority of Muslims in Rivers State stand with Fubara due to his inclusive approach to governance and his recognition of the Islamic faith.
He noted that, unlike the previous administration that declared Rivers a 100% Christian state, Fubara, upon assuming office, acknowledged the state as a Christian-majority state while allowing room for inclusiveness.
Encouraging the governor to remain steadfast, Uhor reminded him of the Islamic belief that Allah rewards patience.
He said the present challenges align with the teachings of Islam, where the Creator tests His people through wealth, power, and authority.
Uhor further called on President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule in the state and restore Fubara’s full authority, emphasising that the governor has been performing effectively despite the crisis.
During the visit, prayers were offered for Fubara, his family, the state, and Nigeria as a whole.
