Rivers elders urge unity as Fubara resumes office

The Forum expressed its gratitude to all individuals and institutions who contributed to restoring peace in Rivers State, following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to lift the six-month-long state of emergency and end military administration in the state.

In a statement released by RIVELF Chairman and former Deputy Governor of the state, Dr. Gabriel Toby, the Forum welcomed the return to democratic governance and applauded the President for listening to the voices of concerned Nigerians.

“As we welcome the return of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, DSSRS and the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martins Ameawhule, DSSRS and other members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, we are presented with a unique opportunity to reset and rebuild,” Dr. Toby stated.

He described the current moment as one that demands peace and introspection from all parties involved.

“This is a moment for peace, sober reflection, forgiveness, rededication, and unity. A chance to heal wounds, restore trust, and refocus our energies towards the progress of our state and well-being of our people,” he said.

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Dr. Toby encouraged all political leaders and stakeholders—including the Governor and members of the House of Assembly—to move beyond the bitterness of past conflicts and focus on reconciliation and development.

According to him, “This new dawn also calls for rededication to service and good governance. The return of the Governor and a fully functional Assembly must not simply mark a political settlement but a fresh start rooted in accountability, transparency, and integrity. Leaders must recommit themselves to their constitutional duties, ensuring every decision is guided by the welfare and interest of Rivers people.”

He further emphasized the need for unity in the face of common challenges, noting that Rivers State’s strength lies in its diversity.

“Rivers State is richly blessed with diverse communities, cultures, and traditions, yet we share one destiny. Division weakens us; unity strengthens us. We must set aside factional differences and work together to tackle unemployment, insecurity, infrastructural decay, and environmental degradation,” he said.

Dr. Toby also called on the wider populace to remain calm, support democratic governance, and commit themselves to rebuilding the state.

He urged: “Reject violence and resist those who seek to divide us.”

He concluded with a heartfelt call for this period to be remembered as a turning point in the state’s history.

Dr. Toby said, “May this moment usher in lasting peace, progress, and prosperity for generations to come,” and encouraged all Rivers people to “choose reflection over reaction, forgiveness over conflict, dedication over neglect, and unity over division.”

Timothy Enitan-Matthews