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Clark hails Tinubu, Fubara over Peaceful Rivers State LG polls

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Siminalayi Fubara and Bola Tinubu

***The peaceful conduct without police is record breaking

In a major commendation, elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the peaceful and transparent conduct of the Rivers State local government elections held on October 5, 2024. Despite the absence of police presence, the elections were successfully conducted without incidents of violence or disruption.

Chief Clark highlighted the significance of the peaceful elections, contrasting it with the high-cost, security-heavy governorship election in neighboring Edo State. 

He called on the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to study this development as a model for reducing election expenses nationwide.

He congratulated the newly elected chairmen, vice-chairmen, and councillors while also commending the people of Rivers State for their maturity and patriotism in conducting a peaceful election. 

Chief Clark expressed his hope that this peaceful conduct will be replicated across Nigeria.

The statement reads,

“I join millions of Nigerians and the good people of Rivers State in expressing gratitude to God for the successful, transparent, and peaceful local government elections held in Rivers State on Saturday, 5th October 2024. 

“It is heartwarming to note the large voter turnout, demonstrating the commitment of the citizens to their democratic rights.

“This achievement, in spite of the deliberate absence of the police during the elections, shows that the people of Rivers State—and indeed Nigerians—are mature and patriotic enough to conduct elections without the overbearing presence of security forces.

 “This stands in contrast to past elections, where significant public resources were expended on deploying security agencies, particularly the police, to oversee the process.

“It is remarkable that such a large-scale election could be conducted fairly, credibly, and peacefully without the loss of life or property. This contrasts sharply with the recent gubernatorial election in Edo State, where over 40,000 police officers were deployed at great cost, leading to numerous complaints and legal disputes.

“I call on the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to thoroughly study this development, as it may offer insights on how to reduce the high cost of elections in Nigeria.

“My heartfelt congratulations go to all the newly elected chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors of the Local Government Councils in Rivers State. Their success is a testament to the confidence that the people have in them.

“I also commend His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for the excellent arrangements that enabled the peaceful conduct of the elections. 

“My thanks also go to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for ensuring that the security agencies allowed the electoral process to unfold without unnecessary interference.

“This peaceful election should be a source of pride for all patriotic Nigerians, particularly in the face of efforts by unpatriotic elements to derail the process. 

“It is regrettable that some members of respected national institutions, such as the Nigerian Police, almost succumbed to these undemocratic plots.

“As we move forward, I urge the people of Rivers State to embrace peace and development. The political crises that have troubled the state over the past year have not been driven by ethnicity, but by the age-old struggle between good and evil, truth and lies. 

“It is time to put the past behind and work together for a brighter future.

“At the age of 98, I remain committed to the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria. I hope that the peaceful conduct of the Rivers State elections will serve as a model for other states, with minimal security involvement and without unnecessary intrigue or interference.”

Rivers

Jonathan to Fubara: Political Battles Will Make You a General

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan has assured Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara that the political challenges he is currently facing will ultimately strengthen him as a leader.
Jonathan made this remark on Sunday at the Etche Festival of Food, Art, and Culture in Nihi Community, Etche Local Government Area, during the 10th anniversary of the coronation of Eze Nwala, the Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo-Umuselem.

Jonathan, who was also honored with the chieftaincy title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche, urged Rivers residents to stand by Fubara, emphasizing that adversity is part of leadership.
“Nobody becomes a general without fighting battles,” Jonathan said. “These challenges are shaping you, and with the support of the people and God’s guidance, you will emerge stronger.”

The former president warned that unrest in Rivers State, the heart of the Niger Delta, could have far-reaching effects on the nation’s economy.
He called for peace, noting that political offices are temporary. “Allow the governor to fulfill his mandate. After his tenure, others will have their turn,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan praised the agricultural contributions of Etche, calling it the “food basket of the state,” and commended Eze Nwala for a decade of impactful leadership. Eze Nwala reflected on his reign, highlighting milestones in the development of Etche land.
Governor Fubara, who was conferred with the title Dike Oha 1 of Etche by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers, expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Etche and Ikwerre people.
He pledged to continue delivering developmental projects, including ongoing road reconstructions in Egwi, Afara, and Mba communities.

“Your support means everything to me, and I am committed to justifying the trust you have placed in me,” Fubara said.
He also thanked Jonathan for his mentorship and steadfast support during difficult times.

The event underscored the cultural richness of the Etche people and reinforced the call for peace and unity in Rivers State amid political tensions.

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Fubara says, God used Rivers’ Political Crisis as blessing for Growth, Emancipation

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Siminalayi Fubara

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has credited God with turning recent political challenges into a source of strength, guiding the state toward a new era of growth, development, and political freedom.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service held in honor of His Royal Majesty, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, Eze Oha Apara IV, Fubara emphasized his unwavering faith that God’s purpose is at work amid Rivers State’s challenges.
He said what his detractors meant for evil God has turned around for the good of Rivers State.
The Thanksgiving Service took place at the Shepherd’s Hill Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Mgbuoba Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where parish leaders presented Fubara with copies of the Holy Bible.
In his address, Fubara expressed gratitude, stating that what his detractors intended for harm, God had used to elevate his administration and bolster the government’s resolve.

“Many called it trouble, but I see it as God’s purpose for a new direction for our state,” Fubara remarked.
“Rather than growing weak, we are becoming stronger and bolder each day. With God’s guidance, we are committed to completing our work and standing firmly for Him.”

The governor further underscored the power of gratitude in gaining clarity and assurance, especially during challenging times.
He expressed joy in joining the Wodo family in offering thanks to God and celebrated Eze Chike Worlu Wodo’s appointment as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council. Fubara noted the enthusiasm with which Eze Wodo worshipped, comparing it to King David’s joyful dancing before God in the Bible.

“It’s one of the reasons God loved King David,” Fubara said. “Even as a traditional ruler, you still hold God in the highest esteem. God will continue to lift you beyond human imagination.”

As part of his support for the church’s work, Governor Fubara donated ₦100 million to assist in its evangelism efforts, dedicating the donation as a tribute to Eze Wodo’s faith and commitment.

Fubara concluded by urging the church to continue praying for his administration and for the peace of Rivers State, assuring that while human perspectives may see challenges, God’s plan will prevail.
He likened prayers to deposits in a bank, saying, “There is no prayer God does not answer.”

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You are plotting to remove Fubara, Timi Frank Accuses President Tinubu

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Bola Ahmed Tinubu

In a heated accusation, former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Timi Frank, has alleged that President Bola Tinubu is behind a calculated scheme to unseat Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Frank claims the President is applying pressure on Fubara to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) or face removal from office.

The allegation follows a Federal High Court ruling that seized Rivers State’s monthly allocation funds, which Frank condemned as unconstitutional and a means to destabilize the governor. Frank expressed the believes that the court decision is part of a plan led by Tinubu, designed to force Fubara into the APC after the governor’s refusal to join the ruling party, reportedly at the encouragement of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

“The President has remained silent on the clear constitutional violations occurring in Rivers,” Frank said in a statement he issued in Abuja on Friday.
He added that the President is allegedly upset with Fubara’s stance, influenced by Wike, who is said to doubt Tinubu’s chances of winning Rivers State in the 2027 presidential election if Fubara remains independent.

Frank further asserted that federal security agencies are acting against Fubara under directives, intending either to secure his loyalty to the President or initiate his removal.
He specifically condemned Justice Joyce Abdulmalik’s controversial ruling on Rivers’ statutory allocations, asserting it would have “dire consequences.”

Frank warned Tinubu against further actions that might undermine Rivers’ financial autonomy or jeopardize Fubara’s position, cautioning that such moves would meet with strong opposition from the state and across the Niger Delta.
He urged Fubara to stand firm, stating that the people of Rivers are solidly behind him.

Frank also called on the international community to address the growing crisis, warning that a larger regional conflict could disrupt operations of International Oil Companies (IOCs) in the Niger Delta.
He emphasized that timely intervention is needed to prevent escalations that could affect the region’s stability and economic interests.

Frank, who is also the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, condemned the court ruling as a significant blow to democracy in Nigeria, urging Nigerians to hold the President accountable for any harm directed at Governor Fubara or the people of Rivers State.

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