I Feel Depressed over Rivers Emergency Rule, Says Fubara

Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers state, says he feels depressed over the declaration of emergency rule in the state.

BACKGROUND

On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the prolonged political crisis in the state.

Tinubu also suspended Fubara as governor of the state; Ngozi Odu, the deputy governor; and all members of the Rivers assembly for an initial period of six months.

The president appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.

‘WE FEEL DEPRESSED’

Speaking on Monday when Muslim leaders visited him at his private residence in Port Harcourt, the state capital, Fubara said he and his team feel depressed over 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.

“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 said.

“As Christians, we believe that everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe that this situation is leading us toward a greater purpose.

“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.”

Fubara urged his supporters to remain patient and unprovoked by “those fanning the embers of violence and disunity” in the south-south state.