Embattled Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding as he works with relevant institutions to uphold democracy in the face of the state’s deepening political crisis.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joe Johnson, the governor expressed regret over the current situation, calling it an “unfortunate moment in the state’s political history.”

Governor Fubara assured the people of Rivers State that his administration remains committed to stability, security, and progress despite the ongoing political turmoil.

“Since assuming office as your governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty,” he stated.

He reaffirmed his dedication to the rule of law and cited his efforts to implement the peace terms brokered by President Bola Tinubu, which included reinstating commissioners who had earlier resigned. Additionally, he noted that his administration swiftly complied with a Supreme Court judgment to restore normalcy.

“At every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult,” Fubara said, emphasizing that his priorities remain the security and well-being of Rivers people.

He assured citizens that, despite political disagreements, governance has continued smoothly, with salaries paid and development projects progressing.

“At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive,” he added.

Meanwhile, former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator Seriake Dickson has strongly opposed the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers for six months.

Dickson, in a statement, condemned the move, arguing that removing an elected governor was unconstitutional and dangerous for democracy.

“I do not support the declaration of a state of emergency, especially when that is taken to mean that the governor and his deputy will vacate their seats for six months,” he said.

The senator noted that his stance on such declarations had remained consistent, even under previous administrations, insisting that an elected government must remain in place even during an emergency.

Dickson also expressed concerns that the Ijaw people were being unfairly targeted, recalling his years of struggle in defending their political interests.

“When I was leaving as governor, I knew the anti-democratic and anti-Ijaw forces in our region and in the country. I brought in a successor to lead and protect our people,” he said, lamenting what he described as a betrayal of democratic values.

He recalled how, despite managing a recession for six years during his tenure, he successfully resisted federal interference in Bayelsa’s elections.

“Is this what has become of the Ijaw nation that we all staked everything to build? It is a sad day for all democrats. It’s a sad day for Rivers State, and a sad day for our people,” he added.