To the esteemed people of Rivers State:
On March 18, 2025, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State in response to the severe political unrest that had engulfed our region.
The past half-year under this emergency governance has undoubtedly tested our resilience and resolve.
As your Governor, I chose to respect and comply with the emergency declaration, collaborating closely with the President and the National Assembly. I was driven by the firm belief that safeguarding peace, stability, and progress in Rivers State warranted every sacrifice.
Despite pressures to legally contest the emergency declaration and the suspension of democratic institutions, I refrained from such actions, prioritizing unity and the greater good during these trying times.
Throughout this period, President Tinubu played a pivotal role in mediating peace among all involved parties. Our leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and I have all committed to reconciliation and moving forward in harmony for the benefit of our beloved State.
We are confident that the political turmoil is behind us, and peace has been restored, albeit with valuable lessons learned from the emergency experience.
The onus now lies with all of us-government officials, legislators, political figures, and community stakeholders-to set aside past differences, prioritize the welfare of our people, and ensure that the peace we have embraced endures.
On behalf of the government and the citizens of Rivers State, I express profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his compassionate leadership and decisive actions that brought about the resolution of the crisis and reinstated full democratic governance.
Personally, I remain deeply appreciative of the President’s benevolence and reaffirm my unwavering loyalty and gratitude.
To those who harbor doubts or anxieties about the peace process, your feelings are acknowledged and respected. However, nothing is irrevocably lost; there remains ample room for continued dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity. As the saying goes, “the most expensive peace is still cheaper than the cheapest war.”
Let us seize this opportunity as a new beginning, working collectively with renewed optimism and determination to build a more peaceful, prosperous, and united Rivers State. I pledge to ensure that every voice is heard and included in this journey.
Despite the challenges, our administration has made significant strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other vital sectors over the past two years.
Our immediate focus must be to resume effective governance and development by completing ongoing projects, guaranteeing they receive adequate funding and attention. This will revitalize our economy, safeguard lives and property, and enhance the quality of life for all Rivers residents.
I am committed to collaborating closely with the Rivers State House of Assembly to regain lost momentum and accelerate the social and economic growth of our State. I renew my vow to serve with humility, dedication, and reverence for God.
I sincerely thank the resilient people of Rivers State for their patience, bravery, and peaceful demeanor throughout the emergency period.
My appreciation also extends to all stakeholders-religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, political actors, women’s groups, youth organizations, concerned citizens both locally and abroad, and well-wishers-whose prayers and support sustained us during these difficult months.
Above all, let us draw strength from our shared identity as Rivers people. Our diversity is a powerful asset, and our unity is the foundation for a brighter future. We must rise above bitterness and division, focusing our efforts on rebuilding trust, fostering inclusiveness, and securing lasting peace and prosperity for all.
Once again, I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his timely intervention and steadfast commitment to restoring peace and stability in our State.
I also extend my gratitude to our leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for his dedication to swiftly resolving the political deadlock.
My heartfelt thanks go to the President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, His Excellency Dr. Abbas Tajudeen; and all distinguished members of the National Assembly for their instrumental roles in this resolution.
I appreciate the Honourable Speaker and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, respected elders, stakeholders, and all citizens who worked collaboratively to heal our divisions and promote peace.
Finally, I call upon every citizen of Rivers State-regardless of political, religious, or ethnic background-to unite in rebuilding our cherished State and securing a future marked by dignity and progress for all.
To God be the glory. Thank you all.
May God bless Rivers State and its people. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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