The Rivers State Muslim leaders have called on President Bola Tinubu to restore full authority of the suspended Governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara stressing that the Governor was performing effectively despite the political crisis in the state.
Penpushing reports that the drawn from 20 Islamic-based groups, which include Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, made the call on Monday at private residence of the suspended Governor in Port Harcourt during an Eid-el-Fitri Sallah visit.
The Muslim Ummah, Nasir Uhor speaking on behalf of the group declared their support for Fubara and assured him of their prayers and support as he navigates the current political challenges in the state.
Penpushing further reports that Uhor emphasized that Muslims in the state are in support of Fubara due to his inclusive approach to governance and his recognition of the Islamic faith and encouraged.
The group equally urged the suspended Governor to remain steadfast and reminded him of the Islamic belief that Allah rewards patience, and in response Fubara expressed optimism that the state would emerge stronger from the current political crisis.
Penpushing also reports that he urged the Muslim delegation and his supporters to trust in God’s process, acknowledging that the current political crisis might leave many feeling depressed but that supernatural forces may be at play beyond human understanding.
“This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made a great sacrifice through your prayers. As Christians, we believe that everything happens for a purpose’, Fubara said
‘And I strongly believe that this situation is leading us toward a greater purpose. No matter what we see, we must remain steadfast. In all things, we give glory to Almighty God. I believe that, in the end, we will emerge stronger’, he added.
Penpushing reports that the suspended Governor reiterated his commitment to justice and equality, stressing that his administration envisions a society where no one is oppressed.
“We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness,” the governor said.
Penpushing further reports that Fubara, however, regretted that he was not able to reach out to the Muslim Ummah in the state during their celebrations, adding that the relationship between religious groups and the state government would be strengthened once the current uncertainties are resolved and assured leaders of the delegation that their pending requests would be addressed after the crisis subsides.
The Governor cautioned against falling prey to those who want to engineer violence by fanning provocative acts, warning his supporters and Rivers state people to avoid certain elements who seek to destabilise the state.
“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their means of livelihood. We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully, and respect constituted authority to ensure that our state remains a model for others in Nigeria’, he noted.
Penpushing also reports that it is recalled that President Bola Tinubu, on March 18, 2025, declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu and the state lawmakers for an initial period of six months.
The president cited the attack on the oil pipeline and the protracted political crisis in the state triggered by the feud between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as reasons for his action.
Penpushing further reports that Tinubu thereafter appointed, a retired Naval Vice Admiral, Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator of the state who was subsequently sworn in.
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