Governor Siminalayi Fubara must swiftly adhere to the Supreme Court’s ruling to maintain peace in Rivers State, as stated by the President yesterday.
He emphasized that the country operates under the rule of law, which is essential for order and governance.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at Aso Villa.
In response to the group’s request for assistance with the political stalemate, the President placed the responsibility directly onto Fubara. He remarked, “Please return home and assist him in implementing those recommendations as quickly as possible. I’m putting it back in your hands. Support him, as I have already intervened both privately and publicly in advising the governor.”
“Just yesterday, I encouraged him once more to seek peace and take a humble approach,” he added.
“This nation is governed by the rule of law. I wouldn’t be serving as President of Nigeria if the rule of law didn’t exist. I have full trust in our judiciary.
“While humans may err, once the Supreme Court has made a ruling, that’s final.”
Before the Supreme Court’s judgment, President Tinubu facilitated an agreement between the conflicting parties, which has since been disregarded.
Fubara and his allies claimed that the terms of the agreement were biased against them.
Following the apex court’s decision on March 7, Fubara has consistently vowed to comply, in addition to ordering council chairmen whose elections were annulled to vacate their posts.
The President further stated, “We had a written agreement, signed by both sides. Some leaders believed the governor was wrong for signing it and chose not to implement it. Look where we are now.
“I’ve allowed enough time for consideration and reflection. We cannot falter, and we will not.
“The citizens of Rivers State should not bear the consequences of the democracy we collectively established. They must be safeguarded. I promise we’ll do better.”
In Port Harcourt yesterday, Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the court’s judgment, seeking assurance and support from the group.
Obong Attah called for increased intervention in the crisis, indicating that the political instability poses a threat to national stability and requires greater attention.
He commended the President’s reforms, such as decentralization and recognizing regional development, while stressing the importance of infrastructure, seaports, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism.
The delegation consisted of politicians, high-ranking government officials, traditional leaders, and prominent figures from the region, including known supporters of Fubara like former PDP chairman Uche Secondus, former Rivers State Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru, and others.
Also present were the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.
Fubara urged Chief Judge Justice Chibuzor Amadi to collaborate with the government on maintaining the new quarters to ensure the facilities remain in good condition.
The Chief Judge heralded the inauguration as a significant milestone for Rivers judiciary, recalling that he laid its foundation during former Governor Nyesom Wike’s administration with Fubara’s attendance.
He expressed satisfaction with this achievement, which aligns with the Rivers State Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers Law Number 10 of 2021, noting its importance for judicial officers’ duties.
He thanked Fubara for advancing this legacy project that facilitates judges’ responsibilities, alleviating the pressure they faced to secure housing during their service.
Amaewhule denounced efforts to incite ethnic division in the state, assuring that the House of Assembly would resist such attempts.
He affirmed that Rivers has moved beyond ethnic disputes and promised that lawmakers would continue to promote unity, peace, and progress.
Amaewhule stated that the Supreme Court’s ruling was anticipated, as the House had operated within constitutional boundaries.
“What our country and state truly require is adherence to the rule of law and accountability in leadership to deliver democratic benefits to our citizens. That is our stance, and we expected the ruling, given our commitment to the constitution.”
