Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has downplayed concerns over the recent Federal High Court order restricting the release of state allocations, stating it is “the least” of his worries.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service held by the state government on Wednesday, Fubara emphasized that his administration would continue to pay contractors and disburse workers’ salaries as scheduled, with payments set to commence tomorrow.
Governor Fubara reassured that allocations for the state’s 23 local council chairmen would also be processed, as all necessary Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) procedures have been completed.
The service, held at the Alfred Diette-Spiff Civic Centre in Port Harcourt, marked a year since the arson attack on the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, a crisis that Governor Fubara said his administration has overcome through resilience and commitment to governance.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, he stated that despite predictions his government wouldn’t last a week, he has successfully led for over a year, implementing various projects across the state and conducting local government elections.
Governor Fubara recounted a violent incident last year, which he described as an assassination attempt, involving an ambush by individuals in police uniforms.
He attributed this to political opponents following his withdrawal of legal cases against a faction led by Martin Amaewhule, after an intervention by President Bola Tinubu.
Despite his efforts to foster peace, Fubara acknowledged that his goodwill had been exploited by opponents, who, he claimed, have since used the opportunity to secure judgments against his administration.
The governor stressed that this lack of reciprocation has influenced his approach to the ongoing political crisis in the state.
The thanksgiving event included worship sessions led by popular gospel artists, including Joe Praiz, Frank Edwards, and Asu Ekiye.
Notable attendees included top government officials and party leaders, including APC Chairman, Emeka Beke and APP Chairman, Sunny Wokekoro.
