By Kolawole Ojebisi
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his determination to resist any attempt to ride roughshod over the state, his administration and its people by an individual or group.
Fubara said with the support of ex-governor Peter Odili, other prominent political leaders as well as people of the State from all aspects of life, he would frustrate any plot to undermine his administration’s efforts to deliver good governance to the people of the state.
The governor made these remarks while speaking at the 2025 New Year State Banquet held at the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday night.
He reassured residents that his government remains resolute in its mission to protect the state’s interests.
“We will ensure we protect the integrity of this state at all costs. We won’t allow anybody to take this state for a ride. It doesn’t matter the approach I will use,” Fubara declared.
He emphasised the unwavering support of prominent political figures in Rivers State, including former governors Dr. Peter Odili and Sir Celestine Omehia, and other notable leaders like Sir Austin Opara, Senators John Azuta-Mbata, Lee Maeba, Prince Uche Secondus, and Dr. Abiye Sekibo.
Fubara said their collective influence and contributions remain instrumental in the state’s political stability and growth.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the governor said, “The beginning and the end of politics in this state is Sir Peter Odili. If he is sitting with us here, alongside these other distinguished leaders, who do detractors have with them? These are the true frontiers of Rivers State politics.”
Reflecting on 2024, Fubara described it as a challenging yet rewarding year.
“It was not an easy year, but we ended it on a high note. Our gains surpassed our losses. With your support, 2025 will be even better,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to the Rivers First policy, stating, “We will continue to protect the lives of our people and provide essential services. Despite distractions, we remain focused on raising the bar of governance.”
Highlighting key achievements, Fubara noted progress in health, education, and emergency services.
“For over nine years, there was no functional fire service, but today, we have procured vehicles and are remodelling offices. Education, too, is a priority, with significant provisions in our budget to address dilapidated primary schools,” he explained.
He promised that his administration would commence the commissioning of projects in February 2025, focusing on areas beyond road infrastructure, as part of a broader development agenda.
In his remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, lauded Fubara’s focus and resilience, describing him as a leader determined to emancipate Rivers State.
Similarly, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency, praised the governor’s leadership, urging “prodigals” to return and contribute to rebuilding the state.
Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, have been at loggerheads over political structure of the ruling part in Rivers State.
This development has factionalized prominent politicans in the state.
