Governor Sim Fubara has extended a hand of fellowship to work together to his presumed political godfather and ex-governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike to lift Rivers State to the status of Lagos State.
He has also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he called the fatherly role in trying to resolve the political crisis in the state.
Fubara has thanked the Rivers people, saying he owed gratitude to them and many others after his final clearance to sit well as governor at the end of the long court processes.
The Supreme Court Thursday morning had cleared Fubara, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the March 2023 governorship election in the state, by throwing away the appeal of Tonye Cole of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Read also: Supreme Court affirms Fubara as Rivers Governor
Cole had among other claims asked the tribunal and the courts to disqualify Fubara on grounds of not resigning as accountant general of the state according to law before contesting for governorship.
In appreciation, Fubara reacted by declaring his resolve to remain committed to the purpose for which he was elected, saying he would not allow anything to distract governance.
Addressing newsmen, Fubara restated his avowed commitment to governance of Rivers State, saying his triumph at the Supreme Court has laid to rest the legal battles that added to the distractions his administration grappled with in the last eight months.
“The Supreme Court has revalidated our mandate in the election. It is a victory for the entire state.
“It is important for us to note that we need this victory to consolidate the purpose of governance. Prior to this, we have had a few distractions here and there.
“And the good news that came to us this morning is a refreshing strength that will encourage us to continue the good works in governance.”
Read also: Fubara says Rivers remains gateway to Nigeria’s economy
Governor Fubara expressed gratitude to God for His help and, to President Tinubu for his fatherly role concerning the internal crisis and the litigation against his election.
He also extended gratitude to the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), whom he described as his “Oga”, for all his support.
The governor called on everyone to join hands with his administration to build a competitive state that will be reckoned with as truly prosperous in all ramifications.
“We have a dream of making it a highly competitive state that will measure, if not up to Lagos, but close to becoming like Lagos. We can only achieve this in an atmosphere of peace.
“So, I am calling on everyone, not just on our internal issue but those members from other parties, the issue is settled, come and let’s build the Rivers State of our dream.
“We will continue to protect and provide the basic needs of governance to everyone who is doing business and who lives in Rivers State,” he said.
Read also: Rivers: APC faction urges Fubara to rebuild state
The governor further said: “We would address our state very soon on the victory, but for now, let everybody be happy that one elephant is out of the road, the other one, by God’s help, will be resolved amicably and the family will be one.”
