**Interview with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara**
**Interviewer:** Governor Fubara, recent violent incidents tied to the local government elections have raised concerns in Rivers State. How is your administration responding to these events?
**Fubara:** We’re actively working with the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the recent attacks on council secretariats in Ikwerre, Emohua, and Eleme. We will not allow political thugs to disrupt our communities, and those found guilty will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
**Interviewer:** You’ve set up a judicial commission to investigate the violence. Can you provide more details on that?
**Fubara:** I decided it was essential to create a commission of inquiry to examine the killings and destruction that occurred. This commission, led by Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, has a mandate of one month to investigate these incidents. We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served.
**Interviewer:** Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has accused you of instigating the violence by proceeding with the local government elections despite a court ruling. How do you respond to that?
**Fubara:** It’s unfortunate that Wike has chosen to politicize this issue. I believe in the rule of law, and we have acted with integrity throughout the process. We had received intelligence suggesting there would be unrest, and we took all necessary precautions.
**Interviewer:** The new Commissioner of Police, Bala Mustapha, emphasized restoring peace as a priority. How do you envision your administration’s collaboration with the police?
**Fubara:** The newly appointed Commissioner of Police and I share a common goal: restoring calm in Rivers State. We are committed to working closely with law enforcement to ensure our communities feel safe again. This will include tackling cultism and enhancing community engagement.
**Interviewer:** APC governorship candidate Tonye Cole has proposed that past governors, including Wike and Amaechi, should come together for peace talks. Do you agree with this idea?
**Fubara:** Dialogue is essential. I believe if all stakeholders, including former governors, can set aside personal interests for the greater good of Rivers State, we can foster lasting peace. It’s crucial that we come together to address these deep-rooted issues.
**Interviewer:** Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has raised alarms about the situation potentially escalating into a national security issue. How do you assess the current state of affairs in Rivers?
**Fubara:** I appreciate her concerns, and I believe awareness is critical. This situation indeed requires urgent attention from all parties involved, including federal authorities. Our primary focus should be on ensuring stability and addressing challenges before they escalate further.
**Interviewer:** Considering the economic implications of issues like oil theft, what measures is your administration implementing to address these challenges?
**Fubara:** We recognize the significant impact oil theft has on our economy. We’re enforcing stricter controls and collaborating with relevant parties to boost production and revenue. The long-term stability of Rivers State and Nigeria is our priority, and it requires collective efforts toward a common goal.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, you mentioned plans to showcase initiatives your administration has undertaken. What can the people of Rivers State look forward to?
**Fubara:** We have several projects aimed at improving the wellbeing of our citizens that we intend to unveil soon, potentially before the end of October. It’s crucial to show our commitment to progress despite the political distractions. We want to keep the people informed about our efforts to enhance their lives.
