By Deborah Nnamdi
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on residents to reflect on the lessons of the six-month emergency rule, stressing that “the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.”
In a statewide broadcast on Friday, Fubara recounted the challenges the state faced under the emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, following months of political crisis.
The governor said he had fully cooperated with federal authorities and resisted pressures to challenge the constitutionality of the suspension of democratic institutions, choosing instead to prioritise peace, stability, and progress.
“The last six months have been enormously challenging, but they have taught us valuable lessons about unity, patience, and the importance of dialogue. Nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness,” Fubara stated.
He urged political leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to embrace the period as a fresh beginning, cautioning against renewed division.
“Let us rise above bitterness and channel our energies into rebuilding trust, fostering inclusiveness, and securing a peaceful and prosperous State for all,” he said.
Fubara also confirmed that he had resolved his political differences with his predecessor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing the reconciliation as a key step toward lasting peace in the state.
“In the course of the six-month period, Mr. President graciously brokered the peace process with all the parties successfully. Our Leader, His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and I, as your Governor, have all accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State,” he declared.
