Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers state governor, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his role in resolving the state’s political crisis.
Fubara spoke on Saturday during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers.
Fubara promised to ensure that Tinubu does not secure fewer than 3 million votes in Rivers state during the presidential election in February.
The governor said the president’s visit to the state demonstrates his commitment to Rivers state and the Niger Delta region.
“Your visit is not just a visit to us; it is an affirmation of the bond between Rivers state and the federal government, as well as your personal love and commitment to Rivers state and this region,” Fubara said.
“When our state was at a crossroads, you intervened as a father and as a true statesman amidst intense political uncertainty.
“You did not look away; you reached out with a fatherly hand, called for peace and harmony, intervened directly and made personal sacrifices so our administration could remain standing and continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to the good people of Rivers state.
“Let me, on behalf of the government and people of Rivers state, say thank you. Thank you for standing with us during the most difficult moments. Thank you for your love and support for Rivers state.
“Mr president, we all know that a good gesture calls for reciprocity. As you have stood for us, we will stand for you. As you have supported Rivers state, Rivers state will support you equally.”
The governor affirmed his support for the rainbow coalition, a cross-party alliance led by Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“Let me also put it on record that in Rivers state, notwithstanding that I am an APC member, we are doing rainbow coalition,” he said.
Tinubu declared emergency rule in the state in March 2025 following a prolonged political crisis, suspending Fubara and members of the state house of assembly.
Tinubu lifted the state of emergency in September 2025, six months after it was declared.
Tinubu intervened in the subsequent political rift between Fubara and Wike until both politicians agreed to work together for the president’s re-election in 2027.
