The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that the ongoing political crisis in the state will ultimately strengthen the people rather than weaken them.
While encouraging his supporters to remain steadfast, Fubara expressed the optimism that “we will emerge stronger.”
According to a statement on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the suspended governor spoke when he received Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, who paid him a Sallah visit at his private residence in Port Harcourt.
Addressing the delegation, Fubara urged them and his supporters to trust in God’s process, saying: “This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made a great sacrifice through your prayers.
“As Christians, we believe that everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe that this situation is leading us toward a greater purpose.”
He acknowledged that the current political crisis in the state might leave many feeling depressed, but emphasised that supernatural forces may be at play beyond human understanding.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equality, stressing that his administration envisioned a society where no one is oppressed.
He stated, “We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness.”
The suspended governor regretted that he was unable to formally reach out to the Muslim Ummah during their celebrations but promised that the relationship between religious groups and the government would be strengthened once the current uncertainties are resolved.
He also assured the leaders that their pending requests would be addressed after the end of the political crisis.
Urging patience and perseverance, Fubara drew an analogy from religious history, saying, “If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle.”
He, however, urged his supporters not to play into the hands of those who want to engineer violence in the state by fanning provocative acts.
“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their means of livelihood. We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully and respect constituted authority to ensure that our state remains a model for others in Nigeria,” he stressed.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the Muslim Ummah, Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor declared their solidarity for the suspended governor, assuring him of their prayers and support as he navigates the state’s current political challenges.
Uhor stated that the majority of Muslims in Rivers State stood with Governor Fubara due to his inclusive approach to governance and his recognition of the Islamic faith.
According to the Muslim leader, unlike the previous administration that declared Rivers a hundred per cent Christian state, Fubara, upon assuming office, acknowledged the state as Christian-majority while allowing room for inclusiveness.
Encouraging the governor to remain steadfast, Uhor reminded him of the Islamic belief that Allah rewards patience.
He said the present challenges aligned with the teachings of Islam, where the Creator tests His people through wealth, power, and authority.
However, the Muslim leader called on President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule in Rivers State and restore Governor Fubara’s full authority, emphasising that the governor had been performing effectively despite the crisis.
During the visit, prayers were offered for Fubara, his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.