Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has credited God as the ultimate liberator of the state, citing divine intervention in resolving the political crisis and ensuring victory over its instigators.
Speaking at the Christmas Ballad hosted by former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, at his residence in Old GRA, Port Harcourt, on Friday night, Governor Fubara reflected on the challenges faced during the crisis.
He noted that the experience gave him a fresh perspective on leadership, emphasizing that, with the unwavering support of the people of Rivers State, he no longer viewed the crisis as a setback but as a catalyst for better governance.
“And not just because I want to accept it, I get stronger in this course every day when I look at the support I am getting from the true Rivers people,” he said.
“So, it is not me being strong. My strength is drawn from every one of you that is here. You gave me encouragement; you do the work for me; you make the calls for me. So, why won’t I stand up for you.
“But we also believe strongly that the ultimate game changer, the ultimate liberator, and the ultimate fighter remains God Almighty. And because we have Him on our side, victory is assured.”
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed that God remains in control of the affairs of Rivers State, expressing optimism for a more prosperous 2025. He assured residents that the coming year would surpass previous achievements, promising a steady commitment to progress and development.
The governor highlighted his administration’s determination to make each year more remarkable than the last, noting that the joy witnessed among Rivers people during the Christmas celebrations signals a promising future for the state.
Governor Fubara also pledged to uphold justice and integrity in governance, commending true leaders and well-meaning citizens of Rivers State for resisting pressures to yield to tyranny and oppression. He emphasized the importance of standing on the right side of history in shaping a better future for all.
“I want to thank everyone, and I assure you that we will continue to run a government that will uplift the image of the State. We will not be tyrants.
“We will remember that what we are doing here today is a shift job and that one day, our time will be up, and we’ll leave for another person to take over.
“And what is important is to allow the machine to keep running effectively so that when the other person comes, he continues with that steam for progress in the state. So, I thank everyone of you for your support.”
Governor Fubara prayed for God to continually bless the home of Dr. Peter Odili with love and peace. He also assured that, while it might not always be easy, he would strive to avoid any actions that could bring disgrace to Rivers State.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, reflected on the crisis that had shaken the Assembly. He credited Governor Fubara’s encouragement for giving him and a few others the courage to stand for the truth and work towards liberating the state.
Former Minister of Transport, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, noted that the event was a gathering of Dr. Odili’s political family. He commended Governor Fubara for successfully blending Dr. Odili’s leadership traits with his own, steering governance in a way that has made the people of Rivers State proud.
In his welcome address, Dr. Peter Odili shared that he and his family decided to host Governor Fubara and his family to an evening of music and other activities as a gesture of appreciation for the governor’s resilience and exemplary leadership.
Dr. Odili recounted the challenges Governor Fubara faced following the existential crisis that erupted on October 25, 2023. He praised the governor for standing firm, resisting attempts to privatize the state’s resources, restoring governance, and improving the welfare of civil servants and the people of Rivers State, reminiscent of the achievements during Odili’s tenure.
Justice Mary Odili, in her speech, presented gifts to Governor Fubara, his wife, Lady Valerie, and their children. She described the governor as a God-given emancipator who has fulfilled his role commendably. She pledged her family’s continued support for his administration.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retired), expressed gratitude to the Odili family for organizing the reunion. He also commended Governor Fubara and his family for their humility in honoring the invitation and acknowledged the contributions of genuine elders and leaders who joined the celebration.