Port Harcourt, Rivers State – Amidst the politically charged atmosphere of a declared state of emergency, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, has conveyed a message of unwavering resolve. He assured the state’s Muslim community that his administration is poised to “bounce back stronger” than ever before. This declaration was made during a significant Sallah visit, a gesture of solidarity from the Muslim faithful, at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.
Governor Fubara, in his address, emphasized his unwavering dedication to the principles of equality and justice. “I also believe strongly that we shall come out stronger. You have said it already; our dream and vision for this State is a society where no man should be oppressed,” he stated. He acknowledged the prevailing hardships, attributing them to his steadfast commitment to establishing an egalitarian society. He made it clear that he would not waver from standing on the side of what is right.
The Governor expressed deep gratitude to the Muslim community for their supportive visit, recognizing it as a profound act of solidarity during a challenging period. He framed the current situation as a test of faith, asserting that all glory should be given to God. “As humans, we might feel a bit depressed because of the situation, maybe because of what we are also seeing, but we might not understand what is deeper that is beyond us, that has happened. But in everything, we have decided to give all the glory to the Almighty God,” he said.
Looking ahead, Governor Fubara pledged to cultivate a more robust relationship with the Muslim community upon the restoration of his government’s full authority. He also committed to defending and protecting the religious rights of Muslims in the state. Furthermore, he reiterated his commitment to operating within a framework of peace and respect for all constituted authorities, aiming to maintain Rivers State’s position as a national exemplar.
In response, Alhaji Nasir Uhor, Vice President General and leader of the Rivers State Council for Islamic Affairs, articulated the community’s concerns. He used the occasion to urge President Bola Tinubu to expedite the review of the state of emergency, emphasizing the adverse impact it has had on the lives of ordinary citizens. “We are using this opportunity to appeal to the President to ensure that this state of emergency is urgently lifted because it has brought a lot of untold hardship on the people with uncertainty, and we are not happy,” Alhaji Uhor asserted. He also noted that reports from the Sole Administrator indicated that the state is peaceful, reinforcing the call for a return to democratic governance.
Alhaji Uhor praised Governor Fubara for his inclusive approach and his positive relationship with the Muslim community, reaffirming their unwavering support. The current political climate in Rivers state is tense, and all parties involved are waiting to see what the next steps will be.
