By Ayodele Oni
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, says restoring peace to the State is his responsibility and that of the immediate past Governor Nyesom Wike.
In a statement personally signed by him, Fubara apologised to the people of Rivers State for “the regrettable anxieties of the last few days.
The Governor stated that “It is the collective responsibility of the immediate past Governor and minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency, Chief Barrister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike and my humble self, to leverage on our positions and influences within and outside the State to advance the progress, security and well-being of our people.
“We must, therefore, not allow circumstances that could retard all efforts at achieving greatness for our people to prevail.
“On my part, I am always willing and ready to embrace the path to lasting peace and tranquility with a commitment to consummating all efforts and initiatives by Mr. President and other well-meaning Nigerians, including my brother- Governors and the elders.
“I wish to thank the President of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his fatherly intervention which opened a series of communication channels to facilitate the timely resolution of the festering crises. I wish to also thank our elders who are currently intervening in the matter.
“Let me clearly state that my actions are aimed at restoring peace and stability in our State. I am a man of peace and as Governor, the advancement of our State is my primary concern. Consequently, no sacrifice is too much for me to make to achieve this objective.
“I assure the good people and youths of Rivers state, that peace will certainly prevail and we shall continue to work together to advance the peace, security, progress and development of our state.
“As Governor, I sincerely apologise to the good people of Rivers State for the regrettable anxieties of the last few days, while thanking you all for your concerns, and continued support, love, and prayers.”
The Governor and Wike are engaged in a face-off over the running of the State. A few days ago, it boiled over, and resulted in a series of actions that could destabilise the State, including the razing of the State Assembly Complex, the near impeachment of the Governor, and the impeachment of the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule.
