THE suspended governor of Rivers State , Siminalayi Fubara, has said he is not desperate to return to office, stating that his “spirit left the Government House long ago.”
Speaking yesterday at a Night of Tributes held in honour of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, Fubara expressed gratitude for the support he has received, noting that loyalty to those who sacrificed for him remains important.
The event was hosted by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum at the Royal House of Grace Church in Port Harcourt.
Cautioning against misinterpreting the solemn gathering, Fubara urged attendees to avoid politicizing the event, especially after some speakers made politically charged remarks. This marked his first public address since President Bola Tinubu suspended him from office and imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025.
“If it were up to me, I wouldn’t want to return,” Fubara stated. “But people like Pa Clark made sacrifices for me, so I must honour that.”
He warned that the event should not be seen as a political attack on his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, or President Tinubu. Fubara emphasized the need for restraint and respect for the occasion’s purpose.
“This is my first public statement since the March 18 incident,” he said. “I’ve stayed silent because many don’t understand the situation. Today, I’m here not to speak politics, but to honour Pa Clark. My presence is my tribute.”
Fubara reiterated that the night was about Chief Clark’s legacy, not a platform for political commentary. “It’s not about me,” he said. “Let’s not turn this into a political stage.”
He questioned whether returning to office was even desirable for him. “Look at me—I’m at peace now. If I had a choice, I wouldn’t go back. My spirit has already left that place.”
Addressing his supporters, Fubara stressed the importance of strategic calm rather than rash actions. “Not every fight is worth it,” he said, urging them to ask if their actions promote peace and reconciliation.
A statement by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi, further advised Fubara’s supporters to embrace non-confrontational approaches and align with the governor’s preference for peacebuilding.
Fubara emphasized the need for responsibility and lawful conduct in restoring stability to Rivers State. He also called for reflection on Chief Clark’s values—peace, justice, and service to the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
Delivering the sermon, Apostle Zilly Aggrey cited James 4:13–16, Hebrews 12:14–15, and Matthew 7:12, underscoring the need for wisdom and unity in resolving political disputes.
Apostle Aggrey commended both Minister Nyesom Wike and President Tinubu for their roles in the political developments in Rivers State and urged further efforts toward reconciliation.
Other notable attendees included former Governor Rufus George, former Deputy Governor Sir Gabriel Toby, Senator Benneth Birabi, Prof. Atuboyedia Obianime, Ms. Ann Kio Briggs, Senator Andrew Uchendu, and many others. Fubara was accompanied by several prominent figures, including Senator John Azuta Mbata, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka, and Dr. Edison Ehie.
