Fubara Swears In Finance Commissioner, Says Police Delay In Prosecution Of Explosion Suspect Baffling

Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, has expressed surprise at the Nigerian Police Force’s (NPF) prolonged silence following the attempted detonation of an explosive device in Port Harcourt by protesters demanding the extension of the tenures of former local government council chairmen after many weeks.

The Governor argued that if such actions had been taken by his supporters, they would have been charged with terrorism immediately.

Governor Fubara expressed his concerns shortly after Barrister Emmanuel Onengiye-ofori Frank-Fubara was sworn in as the new Commissioner of Finance at the Executive Chambers of Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.

The Governor, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, insisted that Rivers State, as it exists today, has only one enemy who is vehemently opposed to his administration, with others classified as his offspring, working feverishly to sink the state.

Governor Fubara declared that, despite his detractors’ efforts, the Almighty God, who is Knowing and Sufficient in all His doings, has continued to frustrate their plans, bringing shame.

Governor Fubara stated, as has been reiterated in several prayers by his predecessors, that Rivers State is dedicated to God, and those who fight it will continue to face inexplicable hardship and defeat.

He stated, “You know, if (Governor) Fubara was involved in anything or had links to Fubara’s associates, Nigeria would have been hot by now. There would have been arrests, statements, and counter-claims. There would have been press conferences.

“But, because it is from the other side, nothing has been heard yet. But, praise God, they could not keep it hidden forever, even though I had not heard anything.

Governor Fubara emphasised: “And, after how many weeks, the Nigerian Police has yet to state the man’s attempt to detonate a dynamite in front of the Presidential Hotel in Port Harcourt.

“I am still wondering why it has not happened. However, if it had been another matter involving us, they might have charged the individual with terrorism.

“But, you see, this God that I serve, we serve sincerely. This God has been dedicated to by our forefathers, because when they make statements, they say, “Rivers State belongs to God, and that is the God who is saving and lifting us.”

Governor Fubara stated that the enemies of the state will undoubtedly gather, as stated in the Holy Bible, but because their gathering is not of God, they will undoubtedly scatter, as is currently occurring.

The Governor stated that his administration is satisfied with its dealings with the Rivers State House of Assembly, which is legally recognised to carry out its legislative duties while also providing the necessary support for the Executive to function effectively and without interruption of governance.

Governor Fubara also charged the newly sworn-in Commissioner, who has a track record of being thorough and paying attention to details, with not disappointing the trust placed in him, urging him to seize the opportunity to touch lives while making the State proud with the quality of service he will provide by always defending it.

He stated, “It does not matter how long or short I have known him. But, in the short time I have known him, he has proven himself to be a gentleman.

“So, Mr Frank, this honour that God has bestowed upon you today does not require you to wear a big cap and place a rottweiler in front of your gate. Take advantage of the opportunity to change people’s lives.

“Most importantly, make the state proud. Work in a way that you have not done before. Defend the interests of the State. That is what is important, not praising me. No. Do not praise me.

“I am confident that you will do well and make us proud, and we will continue to make the State great.”

Governor Fubara assured that his administration will continue to provide services and deliver quality development projects that will truly advance the State on a progressive path, resulting in better living conditions for the people.

He continued, “By God’s special grace, when we leave, there should be genuine positive things that people will see and say, yes, this government meant well for the good people of Rivers State.”