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.”

The Rivers State Government has dismissed as false a social media report alleging that Governor Siminalayi Fubara ordered the shutdown of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and all oil companies operating in Rivers State.

Describing the news as “spurious” and “propaganda from enemies of the State,” the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Warisenibo Joe Johnson, clarified that Governor Fubara remains committed to lawful governance and would not resort to extreme measures that could harm the economy. He assured the public that the Governor had never contemplated or issued any directive to close down NNPCL or oil companies in the state.

The government has urged Rivers residents and Nigerians to disregard this “fake report,” noting it was circulated by an unverified source.

The Rivers State Government has moved to appeal a Federal High Court decision that has suspended the monthly allocations from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This ruling has intensified the ongoing political strife between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, who is affiliated with former Governor Nyesom Wike.

The court’s ruling, issued by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, found that Governor Fubara’s presentation of the 2024 budget to only four Assembly members was unconstitutional. The judge highlighted the governor’s improper use of state funds without full legislative approval, labeling it a breach of constitutional mandates.

In a statement, Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, voiced confidence in the appeal, criticizing the trial judge’s rejection of significant motions, including the inclusion of 23 council chairmen and the state’s efforts to change its legal counsel.

The ruling requires the CBN, along with Zenith Bank and Access Bank, to prevent disbursement of state funds until the budget is properly approved by a constitutionally valid Assembly. This decision stems from a lawsuit initiated by the Rivers House of Assembly, which contends that Governor Fubara did not adhere to a prior court order to resubmit the 2024 Appropriation Bill to the faction led by Amaewhule.

As the appeal process unfolds, the political climate in Rivers State remains fraught with uncertainty, with both parties preparing for potential repercussions in this escalating conflict.