Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has issued a stern warning to political players in the state, cautioning against violence and pledging repercussions for those who engage in harmful acts in the name of politics. Governor Fubara delivered the warning during the flag-off ceremony for the construction of the Elele-Omoku Road in the oil-rich South-South state on Thursday. He emphasized the need for peaceful conduct among local government chairmen, urging them to uphold tranquility until the end of their tenure.
Addressing recent incidents of violence, Governor Fubara condemned attacks on individuals affiliated with political parties, stressing that no one possesses a monopoly on violence. He reminded local government chairmen that their time in office is limited and urged them to maintain decorum.
“When we left Aleso the other day, some people went there and attacked our people. There is no need for it. Nobody has the monopoly of violence. I should even be the one who should come and shout that I will do this, I will do that, but I don’t need to do that because both sides belong to me.
“So, I am advising those people who call themselves local government chairmen, you have a few days in office, please conduct yourselves. Politic will come, politics will go – we will still live our lives.
The governor emphasized the consequences of inflicting harm on others for the sake of political affiliations, asserting that offenders will be held accountable for their actions. He urged everyone to exercise restraint and avoid exacerbating political tensions in the state.
“Let anyone not deceive you, if you deliberately hurt anybody in the cause of expressing your useless support, nobody will forgive you, you will pay for it. So, I’m begging everyone, please conduct yourselves,” Fubara said.
Governor Fubara acknowledged the criticisms directed towards him but underscored his commitment to maintaining peace despite provocations. He urged citizens to endure any challenges peacefully and assured them of his dedication to fostering a peaceful political environment.
“As a matter of fact, I am the most abused, ‘mumu governor wey no know wetin to do with power’, (sic). Is it not? Have I said anything? So, please just endure until when you finish you go your way, I don’t’ want any trouble,” he said.
Furthermore, Governor Fubara emphasized his commitment to peace to President Bola Tinubu, the country’s leader, assuring him that he would not deviate from this path.
The governor said he is the most abused person in the state but has remained calm in the face of serious provocations. He urged everyone to remain calm and allow peace to reign in the state. He said he will not give his detractors the opportunity to cause political tension in the state.
The governor said he has assured President Bola Tinubu who is the leader of the country that he will take the part of peace and not renege on the promise.