Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, has revealed that his administration implemented a covert approach to manage and prevent conflicts between herders and farmers in the state.
A statement from the state government on Friday revealed that the governor urged residents to continue living together in peace during his speech at Government House in Port Harcourt. Fubara stressed the importance of collaborating with local leaders to maintain harmony and reduce tensions between herdership in the area. He said this when he received a delegation of Muslim faithful led by the Vice-President General of the Rivers State Council for Islamic Affairs, Nasir Uhor, as part of activities marking the Eid al-Fitr celebrations. He stated that his administration’s proactive engagement and conflict-management measures have made Rivers State’ a unique situation compared to other parts of the country. The crisis has been prevented from escalating to the point of casualties, thanks to ongoing discussions with security agencies and key stakeholders, as he stated.News: Minister Assures Electricity Improvement Amid Gas Crisis
He stated that the government still takes measures to safeguard the well-being of all inhabitants, regardless of their race or religion. He urged Muslim leaders and other stakeholders to create internal structures that would educate their members on the right to lawful behaviour and peaceful life, saying those living and doing business in the state should be seen as part of the Rivers people.’
Moreover, Fubara stated to the delegation that his administration would accommodate their requests with available funds and reiterated his dedication to maintaining a positive relationship with the Muslim community within its borders. According to the state government, their visit was a part of broader efforts to promote interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence among all communities.