Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has assured a level playing field for all political parties participating in the upcoming October 5, 2024, Local Government elections. He emphasized that the election will mark a significant step toward establishing a new political structure that Rivers people can truly identify with and own.
The governor made this statement when members of the Simplicity Movement, led by Sobomabo Jackrich, paid a solidarity visit to him at Government House, Port Harcourt. Governor Fubara personally received the group, highlighting the importance of their support, which he described as voluntary and genuine, unlike other political affiliations that are driven by monetary incentives.
Fubara Commits to Defending Rivers’ Dignity
Governor Fubara praised the Simplicity Movement for aligning with his administration and urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing the interests of Rivers State. He reaffirmed his administration’s vision, encapsulated in the slogan “Rivers First,” noting that this approach is key to addressing challenges such as crime, hunger, and unemployment in the state.
“We must defend the dignity of our State. We must ensure that the commonwealth of this state belongs to everyone,” Governor Fubara stated.
He also encouraged Rivers people to participate actively in the upcoming local government elections, emphasizing that these polls represent an important step in rebuilding the state’s political structure.
Call for Peaceful Participation
Governor Fubara reiterated his call for peace, emphasizing that anyone committed to the development of Rivers State must shun violence and embrace peaceful engagement in political processes.
“Anybody who is taking the side of violence doesn’t love the state. If you love the State, you will take the path of peace,” the governor stressed.
He urged members of the Simplicity Movement to maintain law and order while supporting his administration’s efforts to transform Rivers State, emphasizing that their support should always be directed toward the collective good of the state, rather than personal gains.
Simplicity Movement Pledges Support
In his remarks, Sobomabo Jackrich, founder of the Simplicity Movement, reaffirmed the group’s unwavering support for Governor Fubara. He praised the governor’s commitment to peace and progress, as well as his determination to restore the dignity of Rivers State. Jackrich assured that the Simplicity Movement will continue to promote good governance and defend the state’s progress under Fubara’s leadership.
Jackrich, who was the National Rescue Movement’s (NRM) governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, further warned that the group would not allow any attempts to derail the state’s development.