The suspended governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, said but for the sacrifices that people made for him to become governor, he would not go back to the Governor’s House in Port Harcourt.
He stated this yesterday at the Royal House of Grace Church, Port Harcourt during a Night of Tributes put together by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum in honour of the late Niger Delta leader, Mr Edwin Clark.
He thanked the deceased elder statesmen and others for their immense support to him and emphasised the importance of standing by those who made sacrifices for him.
“Do you think I’m even interested in going back? Just look at me—I look better now. I have peace. If I had my way, I wouldn’t go back there. My spirit left Government House long ago.
“But many people, including the late Chief Clark, have made sacrifices for me. That’s why I must stand by them,” he said.
He warned against misinterpreting the solemn occasion, especially in the light of some politically charged comments made by earlier speakers and clergy.
He also expressed concern that the event might be misrepresented as a political rally targeting his predecessor, Mr Nyesom Wike and President Bola Tinubu.
“This is my first time speaking publicly since the events of March 18,” he said. “I’ve attended several gatherings, but I’ve been careful with my words. When the mood of an event doesn’t align with my beliefs, I feel uncomfortable—because many of you don’t truly understand the situation.”
“It’s not about shouting ‘Oshobe, Oshobe.’ At a point, that doesn’t solve anything. I had to be here because Pa Clark was special to me. My presence today is the most significant contribution I can make to honour him,” he said.
Fubara added: “This programme is a tribute to Pa Clark. It’s not about Sim Fubara. “Even though I respect the message from the bishop, today is not the time for political declarations. Otherwise, people will leave here saying Fubara gathered his supporters to attack the minister or the President. That’s not my mission.”
Fubara emphasised that not every battle is worth fighting and urged the public to ask whether he truly desires to return to power.
“Inasmuch as we must stand with those who made sacrifices for us, that doesn’t mean we should start shooting blindly. Let us stay focused,” he advised.
He reiterated that the gathering was to honour Clark and urged participants to reflect on the late statesman’s legacy of peace, justice, and selfless service.
The event was attended by the former governor and chairman of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, Mr Rufus George; former deputy governor, Mr Gabriel Toby; Senator Benneth Birabi; Prof Atuboyedia Obianime; Prof. Steve Azaiki; Ms. Ann Kio Briggs; Bishop Elkanah Hanson; Senator Andrew Uchendu; Mr Anabs Sara-Igbe; Prof. Roseline Konya; and Senator John Azuta Mbata.
Accompanying Fubara were Messrs John Azuta Mbata, Adawari Michael Pepple, Adokiye Amiesimaka, Hanny Woko, Tammy Danagogo, Edison Ehie, and Theodore Georgewill.
