The governor of Rivers, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that the struggle for control of state resources is the main root of the ongoing political crisis rocking the state.
He made this remark while addressing the congregation at the 18th anniversary celebration of Omega Power Ministries (OPM) and Chibuzor Chinyere’s 51st birthday.
The celebration service was held at the church’s headquarters in Mbodo, Aluu, near Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Sunday.
Governor Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike, who is now the minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), have been at loggerheads over control of the political structure of Rivers.
The dispute between the men has ignited a political crisis in the state, brought about conflicting court orders, and division of the Rivers house of assembly.
In December 2023, both men (Wike & Fubara) signed an eight-point resolution deal to end the conflict.
The peace pact was signed at the presidential villa in Abuja after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
The parties agreed to withdraw all impeachment proceedings and court cases, but regardless the peace pact, the crisis continued.
In a statement made available by Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara’s chief press secretary, the governor assured that state resources will be utilised judiciously for the benefit of Rivers people.
Fubara then called on the church for continuous prayers to stay focused and efficiently serve the state’s interests, ensuring good governance and progress.
“There is a reason for this crisis, and that reason is the control of the resources of Rivers state,” the governor said.
“Rivers state resources belong to you, and we will make sure that the resources are applied judiciously for the betterment of the state.
“What you owe us is just one thing: continue to pray for us. Let us not lose focus because we know the devil is always at war to derail people in governance.
“Continue to pray for us because what is most important is the interest of the people here, and I believe that with your prayers, we will not lose focus and the purpose of governance will be achieved in Rivers state.”
The Rivers governor commended Chinyere for his philanthropic works and contributions to humanity, noting that his educational programs provide children with vital vocational and technical skills.
“I want to commend you for what you are doing. Life is not about taking. What is important in life is giving, and anybody who believes that it is only taking, the person won’t go far in life,” he said.
“For all you are doing for humanity, God will continue to strengthen you. You don’t know what you are doing, but those of us who are outside understand your contributions to humanity.
“Look at what you just showed me here. How many of our schools are still functioning to provide that level of training? There are no longer there! We met a dead system which we are trying to revive. But you are doing it as a private person. Why won’t God bless you?”
Fubara made a donation of N200million to the church to support its ongoing infrastructure development projects.
The governor also said that Chinyere’s prayers and church support were essential to overcoming challenges, expressing gratitude for unwavering faith and celebration of their partnership.
“I am aware that there is a building for your TV station, and one of the dreams for that place is when you finish it, guests will be staying there when they come for programmes,” Fubara said.
“Let me, on behalf of the government and everyone of you here, and the good people of Rivers State, donate the sum of N200million to support the project.
“Power has injected my own power to you. So, I need more power, more power for the progress of Rivers state, more power for the defense of humanity in Rivers state. God will bless you people for your prayers, and I assure you, we will not fail you.”