Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed that his government will not yield to pressure or blackmail from any individual or group, no matter their power or influence. The governor made this strong declaration while speaking at the 64th Nigerian Independence Day Anniversary parade, which took place on Tuesday at the Government House Arcade in Port Harcourt.
In his speech, Governor Fubara stressed that the well-being of the people of Rivers State remains his top priority. He promised that his administration is committed to delivering on key infrastructural projects across the state.
Fubara’s statement comes at a time of heightened political tension between himself and his predecessor, former governor Nyesom Wike. Despite this political rift, Fubara made it clear that he would not be swayed by intimidation or false accusations.
“I assure you that we will never surrender to barefaced lies and blackmail from anyone, no matter how powerful they may be. We will remain focused and rededicated to the interest of the nation, our dear Rivers State, and the cause of our people,” he said.
He further expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State and supporters across Nigeria, thanking them for their loyalty. “Thank you for your support and standing with us on the side of courage, truth, and justice since the inception of our government to date,” the governor added.
Addressing the country’s broader challenges, Fubara acknowledged Nigeria’s economic difficulties but urged citizens not to lose hope. He encouraged Nigerians to back President Bola Tinubu’s administration as it works to steer the nation in a better direction.
Fubara reflected on the country’s founding ideals and praised past and present leaders for their efforts to keep Nigeria united. He called for continued cooperation with the Federal Government to solve pressing issues such as economic decline, corruption, and political challenges.
“Let us commit ourselves to work hand in hand with the Federal Government to tackle the economic, social, and political challenges—including judicial terrorism, nepotism, corruption, and abuse of power—that have diminished our democracy, stifled our economic growth, and caused untold hardship to our people.
“With an unyielding commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and good governance, and by working together for the common interest, we can overcome all our challenges and prevail over the enemies of progress,” Fubara said.
He further assured, “We will never compromise on our commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy and good governance to the citizens of Rivers State.
“We will complete the Port Harcourt Ring Road, the Ikwerre-Emohua-Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni link dual carriageway, and all other ongoing road projects as scheduled. We will also deliver the N225bn Trans-Kalabari Road before the end of our first term.
“We are giving considerable attention to education through the rehabilitation of schools, provision of educational materials, implementation of the 65-year teachers’ retirement age, and approval for the recruitment of more teachers in line with the recommendations of the Needs Assessment Committee Report.”
