Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has for the first time addressed his decision to comply with the federal government’s six-month emergency rule in the state instead of challenging it in court.

In a statewide broadcast on Friday evening, Fubara said the period was one of the most challenging moments in Rivers State’s recent history. He explained that his decision to cooperate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly was guided by the need to restore peace, stability, and progress to the oil-rich state.

“No sacrifice was too great if it meant securing the stability and progress of our state,” Fubara said. He added that he resisted calls from political allies and others to challenge the suspension of democratic institutions legally, believing that litigation could worsen the crisis rather than resolve it.

The governor revealed that President Tinubu’s intervention eventually facilitated a peace settlement among all the conflicting parties, including himself, the Rivers State House of Assembly, and his predecessor and political rival, Nyesom Wike. He said all parties had now agreed to “bury the hatchet” in the best interest of the people of Rivers State.

Fubara noted that the six-month emergency rule tested the resilience of the state but expressed optimism that normalcy and democratic governance had now returned. He also thanked residents for their patience and resilience during the turbulent period.

His statement followed his official return to Port Harcourt on Friday, shortly after President Tinubu lifted the emergency administration. Crowds gathered at the airport to welcome Fubara, demonstrating strong support for the governor’s leadership.

Upon his return, Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to serving Rivers State with integrity, focusing on unity, peace, and progress for all residents.