“Take Your Destinies in Your Hand” Fubara Urges Riverians

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged the people of Rivers State to take charge of their destinies following the Supreme Court’s decision to nullify the results of the Local Government Elections held on October 5, 2024.

He stated, “No matter how we’ve been deceived in this state, it has come to a point where the people must take their destinies into their own hands.”

Governor Fubara made this statement during the inauguration of the newly reconstructed Rivers State Government House Staff Quarters, located on Forces Avenue (opposite Government House) in Old GRA, Port Harcourt, on Monday.

“Our trust is not in any person; it is in God. I want to thank you for your support and assure you that if there is one person on this planet who will continue to stand by you, it will be me,” he said.

“I assure you that I will lead you with honour, respect, and integrity, knowing that when I leave this position, I will have questions to answer if I am called upon 20 to 30 years from now. I want to be able to defend my actions with pride. So, I thank you and assure you that I will not disappoint you.”

However, the Governor emphasized that despite the efforts of adversaries to mislead the state, the time has come for the people of Rivers to take control of their own futures.

He clarified that he has never advocated for violence or encouraged lawlessness, but he warned that his administration will not overlook attempts to instigate violence in the state.

“As much as I do not support violence when the time comes for us to make a decision, I will lead the charge for that decision. Let me reiterate: I am not afraid of anything. The worst that could happen is that I leave office—will that stop me from existing?

“I am not concerned about that. What matters is that the right thing must be done and said whenever we have the chance. I want to thank everyone, especially our youths. Be strong and do not be discouraged. I assure you that in due time, you will hear from us.”

Governor Fubara stressed the importance of making it clear that the interests of Rivers State are his top priority and that he would not hesitate to pay the ultimate price if necessary.

He referenced the Holy Scripture, quoting Philippians 3:18-19: “For as I have often told you before, and now I tell you again, even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is in their stomach, and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthly things only.”

“Just like the scripture states, we are not driven by selfish desires; we are focused on the well-being of our people. Ultimately, what matters is the lives we have positively impacted and the legacy we leave behind for our children and future generations.”

“Keeping this in mind motivates us and compels me to stand on the side of righteousness, to do good, and to uphold the truth so that when anyone questions my actions in the future, I can defend myself boldly,” he maintained.

Commenting on the project, Governor Fubara expressed his satisfaction that his administration had the foresight to conceive, execute, and dedicate the project to the glory of God for the benefit of the workers.

In his address, the Chief of Staff of Government House, Edison Ehie, thanked the Governor for initiating the reconstruction of the facility and for tastefully furnishing it to improve the comfort of the workers.

Providing project details, the Permanent Secretary of Government House, Mr Chukwuma Ndudi Augustine, explained that the project was awarded to Monier Construction Company (MCC) on June 6, 2024. He noted that government staff would now benefit from more comfortable accommodations, which would positively affect their productivity.

He stated, “The Government House Staff Quarters consists of six two-bedroom units, 11 one-bedroom units, and 11 Boys Quarters. Hostel A accommodates 32 people, while Hostel B accommodates 30. There is also a canteen, cafeteria, gymnasium (fitness centre), mini basketball court, soundproof power generator, and a water tank. The contract is complete, and the total contract sum has been fully paid.”

It is worth noting that the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by the faction loyal to the immediate past governor, Nyesom Wike, and led by Hon. Martins Amaewhule, has given the Governor a 48-hour ultimatum to submit the 2025 Budget to the lawmakers.