Next step is fire for fire, Fubara warns

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has issued a stern warning to those who perceive his adherence to the presidential peace pact as a sign of weakness, declaring that he is prepared to surprise them. Governor Fubara revealed that he has received numerous comments in the media regarding his implementation of the peace initiative but […]

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has issued a stern warning to those who perceive his adherence to the presidential peace pact as a sign of weakness, declaring that he is prepared to surprise them.

Governor Fubara revealed that he has received numerous comments in the media regarding his implementation of the peace initiative but chose to remain silent out of maturity and wisdom. However, he emphasized the importance of setting the record straight for clarity.

Explaining the context of his actions, Governor Fubara recalled President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in the political crisis that rocked the state on October 30, 2023, which resulted in a political solution. He stated that his decision to implement the agreement was solely out of respect for the president.

Addressing the issue of perceived weakness, Governor Fubara stated, “Let me say it here for record purposes: What is happening here in our dear state is somebody who has respect for an elder.” He emphasized that the implementation was not a constitutional requirement but a political solution.

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The governor cautioned that his compliance should not be mistaken for weakness, stating, “If that action that I have accepted to take would be seen as a weakness, I will surprise them. I want this message to go to them.”

Fubara, who was speaking to members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) from the 23 local government areas of Rivers State during a solidarity rally at the government house gate in Port Harcourt, emphasised the organic support his administration has received from the people of the state.

He highlighted the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage for local government workers, with promotions set to begin in April. He also promised to finalize modalities for the implementation of the Consolidated Salary Scale for Grade Level 17 and ensure regular payment of benefits to local government service retirees.

The governor called for continued support for his administration, emphasizing the need for peaceful cooperation and adherence to rules.

He warned against intimidation, stating, “When you are doing what is right, I will stand by you. Nobody, whether full or half, is going to intimidate you. Brace up, I say brace up, because the next step, it will be fire for fire in Rivers State. Everything will be implemented.”

During the rally, the Rivers State Chairman of NULGE, Apostle Clifford Paul, expressed gratitude for Governor Fubara’s support for the workers.

He noted that the governor’s actions had changed their fortunes and restored hope, particularly with the payment of the minimum wage and the lifting of the promotion ban.

The Rivers State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Alex Agwanwor, also pledged the workers’ support for Governor Fubara, highlighting the positive impact of his policies on workers’ welfare and the state’s development.

He warned against any attempt to impeach the governor, stating that the NLC would resist such actions.