Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has declared his unwavering commitment to defending the state from what he described as “anti-democratic forces,” stating that he would not hesitate to “pay the supreme price” if necessary.

The governor’s bold statement comes as his administration faces increasing opposition and scrutiny, particularly following recent legal challenges.

In a passionate address, Fubara reaffirmed that the welfare and interests of Rivers State remain his top priority.

He emphasized that, despite the ongoing antagonism against his leadership, the course of governance in the state is irreversible, and “victory is assured.”

The governor urged Rivers residents to remain resilient, especially in the wake of a recent Supreme Court judgment that has dampened spirits.

He encouraged the people to brace themselves for the challenges ahead, stating that what lies in the future is even more significant than the trials of the past.

Governor Fubara made these remarks during the inauguration of the newly reconstructed Rivers State Government House Staff Quarters on Forces Avenue in Port Harcourt.

In his speech, he assured the people of the state that he would lead with honor, respect, and integrity, emphasizing his desire to leave a legacy of pride, even 20 to 30 years after his tenure.

“I will lead you with integrity, knowing that when I leave here, I would have questions to answer, and I want to be proud to defend my position,” Fubara said.

The governor also reiterated his firm stance against violence, clarifying that his administration does not condone lawlessness.

READ ALSO : Rivers Assembly requests new budget from Fubara

However, he made it clear that he would not allow detractors to destabilize the state. “The time has come for Rivers people to take their destinies into their own hands,” Fubara declared, stressing that his resolve remains unshaken, regardless of the challenges.

He stated that while he was not afraid of the consequences, he would ensure that the right thing is done, especially in matters of state security and governance.

In the midst of these developments, the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Fubara to present the 2025 budget.

The House emphasized the urgency of the matter, citing a Supreme Court ruling that has halted the disbursement of federal allocations to the state until the 2025 Appropriation Bill is passed.

The House also discussed the recent Supreme Court judgment, which nullified the Rivers State Local Government Elections held in October 2024 due to non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

Consequently, the Assembly plans to amend the Rivers State Local Government Law and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Law to align with the Electoral Act and facilitate fresh local government elections.

The House further reminded the governor of the constitutional requirements regarding local government administration, emphasizing the need for democratically elected officials to oversee local governance.

The letter, signed by Speaker Amaewhule, also urged the governor to address the financial challenges stemming from the absence of an Appropriation Law, stressing the importance of acting swiftly to prevent further hardship for the people of Rivers State.

As the House of Assembly prepares to go into a 12-week recess starting on March 7, 2025, it remains to be seen how the ongoing tensions between the executive and legislative branches of the state government will unfold.

With both sides positioning themselves for a crucial period of decision-making, the political landscape in Rivers State remains tense and unpredictable.

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