Fubara: Forces of justice will prevail in Rivers’ political crisis

Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, has encouraged residents to stay hopeful and united amid the political crisis that culminated in the declaration of emergency rule in the state.

In a May Day statement issued by Nelson Chukwudi, his chief press secretary, the suspended governor said “forces of justice, peace, and progress will prevail in the end”.

He also praised the resilience of the state’s workforce as the world commemorates Workers’ Day 2025.

Fubara hailed Rivers workers for their “patriotism, integrity and unwavering commitment to duty” and commended President Bola Tinubu for “advancing labour reforms”.

He described workers as the “backbone of the state’s development and beacon of hope for a better future”.

Fubara said the 2025 Workers’ Day theme — ‘Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate’ — highlights the urgent need to safeguard workers’ well-being in the face of environmental and political challenges.

“This theme underscores the urgent need to protect workers amid escalating environmental threats and socio-political uncertainties,” he said.

“It is a call to prioritise occupational safety and well-being as essential pillars for sustainable growth.”

He commended “the efforts of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in promoting climate-conscious policies that support a healthier, safer working environment nationwide”.

Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and urged public and private employers to uphold labour laws and respect the dignity of workers.

He called for continuous improvement in working conditions, noting that decent work environments are a legal and moral obligation.

“I offer prayers for divine wisdom and guidance for all leaders,” he said.

“Our administration remains committed to creating a work environment that nurtures dignity, opportunity and prosperity for all.”

Fubara and Tinubu reportedly met in London in April over the protracted political crisis in Rivers.

On Saturday, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, said Tinubu and Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), are “doing everything” to return Fubara as governor of Rivers.

“The duly elected governor of Rivers is coming back,” Tompolo said.

“The problem between Wike and Fubara is between ‘boy and oga’.

“Our president is one person who has been protecting democracy, and there is no way he is truncating it. We are doing everything, including the president and Wike. Fubara is coming back as governor.”