Governor Fubara Apologizes to Rivers State Amid Political Crisis

Port Harcourt, Rivers State, 4th November 2023 – In a surprising turn of events, Governor Fubara of Rivers State has publicly apologized to the people of the state following a recent political crisis that engulfed the region. This crisis, which began with an alleged impeachment plot, resulted in a tumultuous incident at the Rivers House of Assembly Complex, sparking accusations and counter-accusations among key political figures in the state.

Impeachment Plot Triggers Chaos

The crisis began when news emerged of an impeachment plot against Governor Fubara, which led to the alarming bombing of a section of the Rivers House of Assembly Complex. In response, police operatives fired teargas and water cannons at the governor along a road in Port Harcourt. These events quickly escalated, causing widespread concern among the populace.

Accusations Fly

Accusations and blame-shifting have been rampant in the aftermath of these incidents. Notably, a former federal commissioner for information, Edwin Clark, has publicly accused Governor Fubara’s predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, of being responsible for the impeachment plot. Mr. Wike, on the other hand, has criticized Governor Fubara for associating with his political adversaries.

The police, who were involved in the controversial use of teargas and water cannons, defended their actions by stating that they had to disperse “riotous and uncontrollable protesters” who were marching towards the Rivers House of Assembly Complex. They maintained that they did not intentionally target the governor or intend to harm anyone during the incident.

Governor Fubara Extends Olive Branch

In a surprising move to quell the escalating tensions, Governor Fubara issued a statement expressing regret for the recent events and his willingness to restore peace in the state. He stated, “As governor, I sincerely apologize to the good people of Rivers State for the regrettable anxieties of the last few days, while thanking you all for your concerns, and continued support, love, and prayers.”

How It All Began

Governor Fubara recounted the sequence of events that led to the crisis. He explained that he was at the Rivers Assembly Complex to assess the damage caused by a fire that had broken out. Furthermore, he stated that he was taking measures to protect lives and property within the area, which included instructing security agencies to investigate the fire incident that had been extinguished by firefighters. Shortly after this, factions within the State House of Assembly initiated a series of impeachments, sparking the political turmoil.

Mediation and Reconciliation

President Bola Tinubu played a crucial role in mediating the crisis during a meeting of the National Police Council that he presided over. Governor Fubara expressed his gratitude for Mr. Tinubu’s “fatherly intervention,” which facilitated communication channels to help resolve the ongoing crises. The governor also acknowledged the involvement of other prominent figures and elders in the state who are actively seeking to mediate the situation.

In his statement, Governor Fubara emphasized the collective responsibility he shares with Mr. Wike to utilize their influence and positions for the benefit of the state’s progress, security, and the well-being of its residents. He committed to working towards lasting peace and tranquility, affirming that peace would ultimately prevail.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s apology and commitment to reconciliation mark a significant step towards resolving the political crisis in Rivers State. The involvement of President Bola Tinubu and other key figures in mediating the situation offers hope for a peaceful and stable future for the state and its residents.