Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has addressed the people of the State following the official end of the six-month emergency rule declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025.
In his statewide broadcast on Friday, September 19, 2025, Governor Fubara acknowledged that the period of emergency governance was one of the most challenging times in Rivers State’s recent history. He explained that his decision not to contest the declaration in court was driven by his conviction that “no sacrifice is too great to secure peace, stability, and progress.”
The Governor commended President Tinubu for brokering peace among the key political actors, including former Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and himself. He affirmed that all parties have chosen to “bury the hatchet” in the interest of reconciliation and lasting peace.
“Peace and stability have once again returned to Rivers State, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule,” Fubara said, while urging political leaders, stakeholders, and the Assembly to put aside differences and work collectively for the common good.
He extended gratitude to President Tinubu for restoring democratic governance and pledged his “utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude” to the President. To citizens concerned about the durability of the peace process, the Governor reassured them that reconciliation and inclusivity would remain central to his administration.
Governor Fubara further outlined his immediate priorities: completing ongoing infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects; reviving the economy; and ensuring no project is abandoned. He promised close collaboration with the State House of Assembly to accelerate social and economic growth, while renewing his vow to serve with humility, responsibility, and the fear of God.
Finally, he thanked the people of Rivers State for their patience, resilience, and peaceful conduct during the months of emergency rule, urging them to embrace the new chapter as a “fresh beginning” for unity, peace, and progress.