Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers State, has expressed feeling depressed following the declaration of emergency rule in the state.
Background
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing an ongoing political crisis.
As part of the directive, Tinubu suspended:
- Governor Siminalayi Fubara
- Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu
- All members of the Rivers State House of Assembly
The suspension will last for an initial period of six months. To oversee governance, Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, has been appointed as the state’s sole administrator.
We Feel Depressed
Speaking on Monday, when Muslim leaders visited him at his private residence in Port Harcourt, Fubara admitted to feeling distressed about the situation.
“We, as humans, might feel a bit depressed because of the situation. Maybe because of what we are seeing, but we might not understand that what is deeper and beyond us has happened,” he said.
Despite this, Fubara emphasized faith and perseverance, stating:
“But in everything, we have decided to give glory to the Almighty God.
“This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made a great sacrifice through your prayers.”
He further encouraged his supporters to remain resilient, adding:
“No matter what we see, we must remain steadfast. In all things, we give glory to Almighty God. I believe that, in the end, we will emerge stronger.
“If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle.”
Call for Peace
Fubara urged his supporters to remain calm and avoid reacting to those he described as fanning the embers of violence and disunity in the South-South state.
