Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara stated on Wednesday that concerns regarding the Federal High Court’s ruling to restrict state allocations are “the least” of his worries.
During a special thanksgiving service organized by the state government to commemorate his administration’s resilience amidst escalating political crises—crises that began a year ago with the arson attack on the State House of Assembly—Governor Fubara expressed his determination to forge ahead.
He assured attendees that, despite the court order, his administration would continue to fulfill payments to contractors and ensure that workers receive their salaries starting tomorrow.
Furthermore, he confirmed that allocations for the 23 Council Chairmen would be processed as the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) procedures have been completed.
The governor urged his supporters to remain steadfast, assuring them that all challenges can be overcome.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Governor Fubara remarked that despite predictions of his government’s swift demise, he has successfully governed for over a year.
He pointed out that his administration has conducted local government elections against all odds and maintained a full cabinet, despite attempts to destabilize his leadership through resignations.
Highlighting ongoing projects throughout the state, he countered critics who doubted his ability to deliver results. He also referenced recent reports that have positioned Rivers State as a leader in financial accountability and transparency.
Recalling a violent confrontation from October 30 of last year, Governor Fubara described the incident involving men in police uniforms as an assassination attempt. He attributed this assault to political opponents who ambushed him after he withdrew legal challenges against the Martin Amaewhule group, following an intervention by President Bola Tinubu.
While he expressed no regrets about his pursuit of peace, he acknowledged that his conciliatory approach may have unintentionally advantaged his opponents, who used his withdrawal to secure favorable judgments against him.
Governor Fubara emphasized that his opponents’ unwillingness to reciprocate his peace overtures has influenced his decisions against yielding to further expectations for resolving the political crisis.
The praise and worship event, held at the Alfred Diette-Spiff Civic Centre in Port Harcourt, featured prominent gospel artists, including Joe Praiz, Frank Edwards, Asu Ekiye, Peterson Okopi, and Jackson Jones, among others. The esteemed Pastor Uma Ukpai served as the guest preacher.
The gathering attracted attendees from various backgrounds, including top government officials, Emeka Beke, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Sunny Wokekoro, his counterpart from the Action Peoples Party (APP).
