Rivers State Celebrates Anniversary of Failed Impeachment Attempt Against Governor Fubara
By Wisdom Tide
October 31, 2024
In a significant show of support, thousands of Rivers State residents, including youth, men, women, traditional rulers, and religious leaders, gathered on Wednesday to celebrate the one-year anniversary of a failed impeachment attempt against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The 2023 attempt, led by 27 pro-Wike lawmakers, resulted in a political crisis that has lingered for a year.
One Year Since the Failed Impeachment Attempt
October 30, 2024, marked a full year since the dramatic move by certain members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Fubara, a situation that escalated into a tense political crisis across the state. The embattled lawmakers, led by Speaker Martin Amaehwule, attempted the impeachment on October 30, 2023, only to see their efforts thwarted, resulting in a show of solidarity for the governor.
Thousands gathered at the Alfred Diette-Spiff Civic Centre in Port Harcourt to mark the anniversary with a "Rivers State Day of Thanksgiving, Praise, and Worship." Governor Fubara used the occasion to reflect on his administration's progress and express gratitude for the support he has received.
Governor Fubara’s Reflections on Overcoming Adversity
Addressing the crowd, Governor Fubara thanked the people of Rivers for their loyalty and expressed his gratitude for divine intervention in overcoming political challenges. "If you had not stood with us, we wouldn’t be here today," he said, underscoring the attempted impeachment as an "assassination attempt" against the people’s will.
Governor Fubara also mocked his detractors, emphasizing that their efforts to destabilize his administration had failed. He noted that his administration had maintained a strong performance in governance, transparency, and project execution despite efforts to derail it. His administration's financial diligence has even drawn praise from BudgIT, which recently ranked Rivers State as first in fiscal performance among Nigeria's 36 states.
Commitment to Financial Prudence and Accountability
Governor Fubara highlighted his administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline, attributes that have contributed to the state's top ranking by BudgIT. "We are here to serve, not to steal," he remarked, further assuring Rivers residents that funds allocated to local government chairmen and salaries would be disbursed promptly. Fubara emphasized that prudence in resource management is essential for creating a lasting legacy.
The governor celebrated the administration's accomplishments despite efforts by opposition members to hinder his leadership. "We have embarked on projects that are positively impacting the lives of Rivers people," he affirmed, reinforcing his dedication to fulfilling his duties responsibly.
Upholding the Peace Accord Amid Political Challenges
Reflecting on the peace accord initiated by President Bola Tinubu, Governor Fubara disclosed that he had withdrawn legal suits to uphold the agreement in the interest of peace. However, he pointed out that his opponents had violated the accord, securing judgments to their advantage. "It was because we withdrew our matter, even the matter they filed against us," Fubara noted, accusing his detractors of taking advantage of his honorable intentions.
Fubara criticized those who disregarded the accord's spirit and proceeded with court actions, labeling their actions as dishonorable. "When I discovered that I was being ambushed, I knew that no amount of dishonorable actions would succeed if our intentions are genuine," he said.
Celebrating Peace and Unity in Rivers State
The day’s event also featured a heartfelt message from Rev. Umai Ukpai, who stressed the importance of peace, both individually and within the state. Rev. Ukpai condemned those who incite discord, declaring that such disruptive behavior would no longer be tolerated. "God abhors troublemakers," he warned, asserting that the day symbolized a spiritual victory for the people of Rivers State.
The celebration included performances from prominent artists such as Preye Odede, Ada Zion, and Frank Edwards, alongside several church choirs, creating an atmosphere of joy and thanksgiving.
A Day of Liberation and Hope for the Future
October 30 has now been embraced as a symbolic “Liberation Day” by many Rivers residents, commemorating what they view as a divine intervention that freed the state from the political maneuvers of former governor and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Governor Fubara assured attendees of his commitment to upholding the best interests of Rivers State. "We are on a path of genuine service, a path that leaves a legacy beyond personal interests," he stated.
As Rivers State moves forward, Governor Fubara’s administration has reaffirmed its dedication to governance that benefits all residents, fostering a future of peace, prosperity, and unity
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