Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State on Saturday said that he is still serving as a governor of the state after the six-month emergency rule period because of the “special favour” of President Bola Tinubu.
Fubara made the remarks at the combined 37th and 38th convocation ceremony of the Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to fully funding the institution and supporting its staff and students.
Addressing concerns raised by the university management, the governor said the challenges were a consequence of the political instability that affected the state earlier in his administration, PUNCH reports.
“Like you said, a report was given to us. But you all know what happened in the life of our administration,” Fubara said.
“It is only by the special grace of God, the special favour from Mr President, that we are standing here still as the ones presiding over the affairs of Rivers State.”
He assured stakeholders that his government had resumed full administrative responsibility and would address all issues presented during the ceremony.
Fubara listed priority funding areas including bridging infrastructural gaps, strengthening campus security, and improving staff and student welfare.
He added that satellite campuses struggling with operational challenges would receive focused attention in 2026.
“We will continue to fulfil our financial obligations to the university, ensuring improved infrastructure as well as the security and welfare of staff and students. Education remains the most vital investment for national development,” he said.
The governor commended RSU’s progress and urged the institution to deepen its research, innovation, and leadership training in alignment with the state’s development objectives.
He further congratulated the 13,242 graduates receiving first degrees, diplomas, certificates, and postgraduate qualifications, while thanking parents, guardians, staff, and the Governing Council for their support.
“As you step into the future, let integrity, hard work, and honesty guide you. Cherish the sacrifices made for your education and live a life of purpose, kindness, and compassion,” he told the graduating students.
Rivers State was plunged into months of political turmoil following the bitter rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, leading to a series of institutional standoffs, legislative defections, parallel assemblies, and clashes between rival political structures.
The deepening crisis prompted the Federal Government to impose a six-month emergency rule to stabilise governance, suspend rival legislative activities, and prevent a breakdown of law and order.
During this period, key aspects of state administration were overseen by federal authorities, with many state-level decisions put on hold.
Fubara’s eventual return to full executive powers was widely viewed as the outcome of negotiations facilitated by President Tinubu, who intervened repeatedly to de-escalate tensions between the factions.
It was against this backdrop that Fubara acknowledged the President’s role, stating that his continued tenure was not guaranteed without high-level intervention
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