Port Harcourt — Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has spoken publicly for the first time since the declaration of a state of emergency in the state, urging restraint and reflection amid the political crisis.
A video of Fubara’s remarks, which has since gone viral on social media, captures the former governor speaking during a service of songs held in Port Harcourt on Sunday in honor of late elder statesman Edwin Clark.
“There are some fights you don’t fight. Not everything is by force,” Fubara stated in the video, drawing applause from the audience. “Can’t you see how better I look? Do you think I am interested in it? My spirit has already left that place long ago.”
Fubara’s comments come in the wake of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, which led to the suspension of Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly. The President appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.
The viral clip has sparked reactions across political circles and the public, with many interpreting the former governor’s tone as one of resignation and strategic withdrawal.
His choice of words is being widely viewed as a message to his supporters and political adversaries alike—that not every conflict requires confrontation, and that sometimes, stepping back is a form of strength.
Political analysts believe the statement may signal Fubara’s intent to avoid further escalation, even as legal and political questions about the state of emergency remain unresolved.
As the situation in Rivers continues to draw national attention, observers await whether Fubara will re-engage politically or maintain his current posture of calm detachment.
