Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has pledged to stand firm against any attempts by dissatisfied individuals to throw the state into chaos.
The governor made the comments during a visit from the Bishops and Gospel Ministers’ Association International Incorporated (BGMAII) Rivers State Chapter at the Government House in Port Harcourt, News About Nigeria reports.
Fubara said the prevailing peace in the state is a result of his reliance on divine strength to withstand insults and outbursts directed at him.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the Governor noted that his commitment to peace has led to an environment conducive to investment and sustainable development.
Represented by Dr. George Nwaeke, the Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, Fubara said his gentle demeanour is often misconstrued as weakness. He said this demeanour has, however, promoted harmony within the state.
The governor urged stakeholders to continue praying for the state’s prosperity and for divine intervention to thwart any adversarial efforts.
The statement reads in part, “But now the governor has brought about a lot of changes in the state. One of the most important things is that he has changed the negative narrative. It is no longer Rivers of blood. It is now Rivers of Peace.
“We are enjoying our lives here. Why? Because there is a change in the narrative. We have peace. The Governor is, as much as possible, absorbing any level of insult at him only for one purpose: that Rivers State may have peace; that we may grow; that this state will experience genuine development.”
Archbishop Eddy Ogbonda, leader of the visiting group, affirmed the group’s commitment to peace in the state.
He announced a week-long prayer session that will culminate in a peace rally at the Government House.
He assured Governor Fubara of continued divine support in overcoming challenges and maintaining peace in Rivers State.
He said, “Rivers State needs peace. Everyone as individuals need peace. The country needs peace, and the world at large needs peace. So, we are here to do a peace march. We pray that God will command His peace to reign in Rivers State”.
The development comes amidst a bitter political crisis in the state, largely between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
