Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has warned political leaders in the state against letting political differences undermine peace, unity and development, saying Rivers’ collective interest must remain paramount.
Fubara gave the warning yesterday in his goodwill message to Rivers people to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Onwuka Nzeshi, said that although disagreements are inevitable in a democratic society, politicians must draw the line when such differences threaten the peace and progress of the state.
He said, ‘We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State.’
Fubara described peace and unity as indispensable to Rivers’ socioeconomic development, stressing that no meaningful development could take place in an atmosphere of rancour, division, and political hostility.
The governor, who described Rivers as the ‘treasure base of the nation’ and a melting pot of diverse ethnic nationalities, said the state had historically prospered whenever its people lived and worked together in harmony.
He said his administration, since assuming office, has made peace the cornerstone of its governance philosophy, describing it as ‘the most invaluable infrastructure.’
According to him, the relative peace the state currently enjoys has enabled his administration to attract investments and execute projects across the three senatorial districts.
Fubara appealed to youths, traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders to become ambassadors of peace in their communities, wards and local government areas.
He said, ‘No one benefits when the state is in crisis.’
The governor urged Rivers people to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence in 1960 and renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence, stressing that the anniversary should also reinforce the need for unity at both national and state levels.
He further called on the people of the state to support the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying cooperation between the Federal Government and the states remains critical to achieving the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Fubara said national unity and effective cooperation across levels of government were necessary for sustainable development.