Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has urged residents of the state to remain calm and fearless amid reports of a brewing political crisis.
The governor gave the assurance in his New Year message delivered shortly after the crossover service at the Government House Chapel of Everlasting Grace in Port Harcourt.
Mr Fubara expressed optimism that 2026 would bring improved fortunes for Rivers State and its people, saying his administration was entering the new year with renewed strength and confidence.
“I am not relying on instruments of war, but on prayer,” the governor said, calling on residents to remain peaceful and unperturbed.
Reflecting on the past two years of his administration, Mr Fubara acknowledged that the period had been challenging but said his government was moving forward with hope and faith.
He admitted that some expectations had not been met but maintained that the state would witness progress and development in the new year.
The governor reiterated his commitment to governance founded on faith, perseverance and service to the people.
He also expressed confidence in the future of the country’s leadership, stating that President Bola Tinubu would emerge victorious in the 2027 presidential election.
Political tension
Mr Fubara’s New Year message comes amid heightened political tension in the state following comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
On Wednesday, Mr Wike declared that Mr Fubara would not be re-elected in the 2027 governorship election, insisting that the state’s reported ₦600 billion financial war chest would not guarantee victory.
The minister accused his estranged political protégé of violating agreements reached during a peace and reconciliation meeting convened by President Tinubu in June, describing the alleged breach as a major factor worsening the political crisis in Rivers State.
Mr Wike made the remarks during a “thank-you” visit to Tai Local Government Area, where he warned that political power could not be sustained through control of state resources alone.
Assembly bonus controversy
The governor also faced criticism from the Rivers State House of Assembly after lawmakers returned ₦100,000 each credited to their personal bank accounts.
In a statement signed by the Assembly spokesperson, Hon. Enemi George, the House said the funds were transferred on December 30, 2025, following instructions from the governor, without legislative approval.
The lawmakers said they immediately returned the money to the Rivers State Government’s account upon discovering the unsolicited payments.
The Rivers State Government, however, clarified that the ₦100,000 was an annual Christmas bonus paid across board to civil and public office holders in the state.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, explained that the bonus was disbursed to all workers and pensioners captured on the state’s payroll system, without discrimination.
NLC commends governor
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Rivers State Council, has commended Mr Fubara for approving and paying the 2025 Christmas bonus to civil servants and pensioners.
In a statement signed by the state NLC Chairperson, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, the union said the gesture demonstrated the governor’s continued commitment to workers’ welfare since assuming office.
The NLC added that the bonus would enhance the purchasing power of workers and pensioners, enabling them to celebrate the festive season with their families.
