By Atoyebi Nike
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has marked the second anniversary of his administration in Rivers State with a reflective message, despite his suspension under a federally imposed state of emergency.
In a statement titled “Our Journey: Challenging but Progressive and Impactful!”, Fubara thanked Rivers people for their support and reaffirmed his commitment to peace, unity, and good governance.
Fubara, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, said his administration had recorded modest but meaningful progress in infrastructure, health, education, youth empowerment, and women’s inclusion—before its disruption in March 2025.
On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing political instability, constitutional breaches, and security threats. Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state assembly were suspended for six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was installed as Sole Administrator.
Legal experts, including the Nigerian Bar Association, have challenged the move as unconstitutional, insisting emergency powers do not justify removing elected officials.
Undeterred, Fubara called on residents to focus on reconciliation and collective progress. “Let us turn the page… The time to rebuild and rise is now,” he said, stressing that political disruption must not derail the state’s developmental path.
He reiterated his dedication to prioritizing the welfare of Rivers people, despite political setbacks, and urged continued public engagement to sustain democratic gains.
