THE Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, stated today that concerns regarding the Federal High Court’s decision to restrict the release of state allocations are “the least” of his worries.
Fubara stated this during a special thanksgiving service organized by the state government to commemorate his administration’s resilience amidst escalating political crises—beginning with the arson attack on the State House of Assembly complex exactly one year ago.
He assured that despite the court order, his administration would continue to make payments to contractors and ensure that workers’ salaries are disbursed starting tomorrow.
Governor Fubara confirmed that allocations for the 23 Council Chairmen would also be credited, as the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) procedures have been finalized.
He urged his supporters to remain steadfast, assuring them that all challenges can be overcome.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, he pointed out that despite predictions of his government’s imminent collapse, he has successfully led for over a year.
He highlighted that his administration has conducted local government elections against all odds and maintained a full cabinet, despite attempts to undermine his leadership through resignations.
In showcasing his administration’s progress, he mentioned ongoing projects across the state, countering critics who doubted his ability to deliver.
He also referenced recent reports that rank Rivers State among the leaders in financial accountability and transparency.
Governor Fubara recalling an incident from October 30 of last year, described a violent encounter with individuals in police uniforms as an assassination attempt.
He attributed this confrontation to political opponents, whom he accused of ambushing him after he withdrew legal actions against the Martin Amaewhule group, following an intervention by President Bola Tinubu.
While he expressed no regrets about pursuing peace, he acknowledged that his conciliatory approach may have granted his opponents an advantage, allowing them to leverage the cessation of legal action to secure judgments against him.
Governor Fubara stressed that the lack of reciprocity from his opponents towards his peaceful overtures has impacted his decisions regarding concessions in resolving the political crisis.
The praise and worship session, held at the main bowl of the Alfred Diette-Spiff Civic Centre in Port Harcourt, featured prominent gospel artists such as Joe Praiz, Frank Edwards, Asu Ekiye, Peterson Okopi, and Jackson Jones, among others.
The esteemed Pastor Uma Ukpai served as the guest preacher for the event, which was attended by individuals from various sectors, including high-ranking government officials, Emeka Beke, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Sunny Wokekoro, Chairman of the Action Peoples Party (APP).
