Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, did not mince words on Monday as he criticized the attitude of members of the Rivers State House of Assembly towards his administration, boldly declaring that they would cease to exist as legislators if he so desired.
Addressing a delegation of political and traditional leaders from Bayelsa State at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara expressed frustration with the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and the strained relationship between the two states.
The delegation, led by former Governor of Bayelsa State and Senator Henry Siriake Dickson, included prominent figures such as the first Military Governor of old Rivers State, Alfred Diete-Spiff, traditional rulers, former commissioners, and PDP executives.
Governor Fubara reaiterated his commitment to maintaining peace despite facing intimidation and unwarranted attacks.
He stated, “Those group of men who claim they are Assembly members are not Assembly members, they are not existing. I want it to be on record. Their existence is me allowing them to exist.”
“There was nothing in that Peace Accord that’s a constitutional issue; it’s a political solution to a problem. And I accepted it because these were people that were eating in my house, these were people I have helped paid their children’s school fees when I wasn’t even a governor. So, what is the thing there?
“We might have our division but I believe that one day, we could also come together but it has gotten to a time when I have to make a statement that they are not existing. Their existence is me allowing them to exist. If I de-recognise them, they are nowhere. I want you to see the sacrifice I have made in allowing peace to reign in our state,” he added.
Acknowledging the efforts of political leaders, including his predecessor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in his emergence as governor, Fubara asserted his independence, attributing his position to divine providence.
He lamented the use of police officers to intimidate his supporters and revealed instances of sabotage from within his own administration, highlighting the challenges he faces in governing amidst political turmoil.
Senator Dickson echoed the importance of unity between Rivers and Bayelsa, urging both states to preserve their historic connection for mutual benefit. He commended Governor Fubara’s efforts to resolve disputes and called for collective responsibility from both Fubara and his predecessor to steer Rivers State towards progress.
As the political tension in Rivers State continues, Dickson emphasized the need for wise counsel and urged leaders to support Governor Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike in their endeavors for the betterment of the state.
