Rivers State Governor, Siminialayi Fubara, says he has endured intense criticism and misrepresentation throughout the state’s prolonged political crisis because he chose not to publicly defend himself while others pushed their own version of events.
Speaking during the commissioning of the extended and dualised Ahoada–Omoku Road in Rivers West Senatorial District, Fubara explained that his silence allowed a “single story” to define him unfairly.
“I am a gentleman and a principled person,” he said. “I have suffered too much because people have only heard one narrative.”
‘I Never Avoided the House of Assembly’
The governor dismissed claims that he had refused to meet with members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. According to him, the lawmakers’ perception of his unwillingness to engage is rooted in misunderstanding—and in the actions of others who controlled the process.
“A lot has happened, and no one has heard my side,” Fubara stated. “I have made several efforts to meet with the Speaker and members of the Assembly. I am only waiting for the meeting to be scheduled.”
He stressed that the delay did not come from him. Instead, he said arrangements for such engagements were placed under the control of the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Chief Nyesom Wike.
“They didn’t want me to call them directly,” Fubara explained. “It was my leader who had to arrange the meeting, and up until now, that meeting has not been fixed.”
‘Claims That I Avoid Legislators Are Lies’
Fubara maintained that suggestions that he had refused to speak with the lawmakers or address their requests were false.
“How people go around saying I don’t want to meet them or attend to their concerns is pure lies,” he said. “I have no reason to avoid them. Whatever their needs are, I am ready to meet them so we can maintain peace in our state.”
‘I Will Not Undermine Party Leadership’
The governor said he deliberately refused to bypass the party leadership to avoid worsening the already fragile political situation.
“I have met with our leaders, and they said they would arrange the meeting,” he said. “I don’t want to go behind them. I don’t want it to seem as though I am trying to divide the house.”
Fubara emphasised that his goal is to ensure unity and progress across Rivers State.
“This is not about me; it is about the state,” he noted. “We must come together for the sake of Rivers people.”
Commissioned Road Project and Gratitude to Supporters
While speaking at the road commissioning, the governor highlighted the project as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises despite political challenges.
“We are celebrating with our people for their support,” he said. “Even in the face of challenges, we remain focused on delivering the dividends of democracy.”
He thanked residents of Rivers West Senatorial District for backing both his administration and President Bola Tinubu.
Fubara Speaks on His Defection to the APC
Addressing his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Fubara stressed that the move was driven by a desire to create an atmosphere of peace and development.
“We cannot thrive in a climate of constant conflict,” he said. “Development cannot come when there is disunity. We are standing strong because of the support of Mr President.”
He assured citizens that the renewed hope agenda would extend to all local government areas.
“The renewed hope agenda is here with a vigour you cannot imagine,” Fubara added. “We are ready to take development to every door.”
‘I Have No Personal Issues With Any Legislator’
Fubara also clarified that he harbours no resentment toward lawmakers at the state or federal level.
“I do not personally have any disagreement with members of the National Assembly. Even those in the state Assembly—I have no issues with them,” he said.
As the political crisis in Rivers State continues to evolve, Fubara’s comments mark one of the clearest attempts yet by the governor to present his side of a saga that has dominated the state’s political landscape for months.
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