Crystabel Ukwuegbu
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that the ongoing political crisis will ultimately strengthen the state rather than weaken it.
Fubara made this statement when he hosted Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based organizations, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, at his private residence in Port Harcourt during their Eid-El-Fitr Sallah visit.
Faith Amid Political Uncertainty
Speaking to the delegation, Fubara encouraged both the Muslim community and his supporters to maintain faith in God’s plan.
its a season about love, sacrifice, and unity, he said. “You have come to share in our struggles, and your prayers are deeply appreciated. As Christians, we believe everything happens for a reason, and I strongly feel that these challenges are preparing us for something greater.”
Acknowledging the prevailing political tension, he reassured the people that unseen forces might be influencing events beyond human comprehension.
“No matter what happens, we must remain steadfast. In every situation, we give glory to God. I believe that in the end, we will come out stronger,” he affirmed.
Commitment to Justice and Inclusivity
Fubara reiterated his dedication to fairness and justice, emphasizing his vision for an inclusive society where no one is marginalized.
“We stand for equality, and if that brings us difficulties, we will endure them. What matters most is our commitment to truth and justice,” he stated.
He expressed regret for not formally reaching out to the Muslim community during their celebrations but assured them of stronger ties between religious groups and the government once the political situation stabilizes.
He also promised that their pending requests would be addressed when normalcy is restored.
Call for Patience and Peace
Drawing from religious history, Fubara urged patience and perseverance, stating, “If God could wait for even the slowest creatures like the snail to enter Noah’s Ark, then patience must be a guiding principle in our journey.”
He also cautioned against being misled by individuals seeking to incite violence, warning that such actions could destabilize the state and harm people’s livelihoods.
Creating chaos and economic hardship is their aim . We will not allow that. Our commitment remains to peaceful governance, respecting constitutional authority, and ensuring Rivers State remains a model for others in Nigeria, he concluded.
Muslim Community Pledges Support
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor expressed solidarity with Governor Fubara, assuring him of their unwavering prayers and support during this challenging period.
He praised the governor’s inclusive leadership, noting that, unlike the previous administration that declared Rivers a purely Christian state, Fubara has recognized and accommodated the Islamic faith while acknowledging the Christian majority.
Encouraging him to stay resolute, Uhor reminded Fubara of the Islamic principle that patience is rewarded by Allah.
“These trials align with Islamic teachings, where people are tested through wealth, power, and authority,” he noted.
Uhor also called on President Bola Tinubu to reassess the emergency rule in Rivers State and reinstate Fubara’s full authority, arguing that despite the crisis, the governor has continued to govern effectively.
During the visit, prayers were offered for Governor Fubara, his family, the people of Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.
