Port Harcourt, Rivers State- In a heartwarming display of regional solidarity, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and his Bayelsa State counterpart, Governor Douye Diri, on Saturday vowed to deepen their partnership, effectively burying the hatchet on lingering inter-state tensions.
The occasion was a Christmas visit by Governor Diri and his entourage to Government House, Port Harcourt, where the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a more integrated and prosperous South-South region.
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Governor Fubara, in a passionate address, urged Governor Diri to champion the strengthening of the BRACE Commission, a regional body aimed at tackling security and other challenges facing the South-South. “We can’t afford to work in silos,” he declared. “Crime knows no borders. If we tackle issues in isolation, criminals will simply shift their operations to neighboring states.”
He emphasized the historical and cultural ties that bind Rivers and Bayelsa, stating, “Our stories are intertwined. We cannot afford to allow petty squabbles to hinder our progress.” Governor Fubara also highlighted the significant Bayelsan population residing in Rivers State, emphasizing the need for collaborative development initiatives that benefit both states.
Governor Diri, echoing the sentiments of his host, praised the cordial relationship fostered between the two states since Governor Fubara assumed office. “We have proven that dialogue and understanding are far more effective than confrontation,” Governor Diri stated. “We are brothers, not enemies.”
He recounted a recent incident where the vandalism of transmission lines from Imo to Rivers State had plunged Bayelsa into darkness for six months. He lauded the swift intervention of both states in resolving the issue and addressing the underlying interstate boundary disputes in the Ahoada area.
The Christmas visit was more than just a courtesy call; it was a symbolic gesture of renewed commitment to regional cooperation and a shared vision for a more prosperous South-South. As the two governors exchanged warm greetings and reaffirmed their dedication to the well-being of their people, it was clear that a new era of peace and progress had dawned upon this critical region of Nigeria.
