Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed confidence that despite the political challenges his administration is facing, the people of the state will emerge stronger.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Nyeweali Akpor Kingdom’s Palace and a residential quarters for King Eze Levi Amos Oriebe in Ozuoba, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, the governor called on residents to maintain peace and stay law-abiding for the greater good of Rivers State.
In his address, Fubara encouraged his supporters and the people of Rivers not to be discouraged by recent events.
He emphasized that his administration, which he believes was divinely entrusted to him, will not be interrupted. “I want to say to our teeming supporters, I know that while some of you are in high spirits, others feel discouraged. But I assure you of one thing: God does not start something and abandon it midway,” he said.
Fubara reaffirmed that his administration’s priority remains maintaining peace and urged his supporters to follow a path of peace. He warned against any form of lawlessness and reiterated his commitment to ensuring the overall well-being of Rivers State. “Our concern for this state is not for personal gain but for the total well-being of Rivers State. So, I appeal to everyone: be law-abiding. I will not encourage disobedience or violence, but that does not mean we will support evil. We will never support evil,” Fubara declared.
The governor also reiterated his administration’s dedication to delivering impactful, people-oriented development projects, assuring the public that challenges will not deter progress. “Our projects and services will continue to touch the hearts, souls, and spirits of our people. No matter the challenges we face, we will not renege on the promises we made to the good people of Rivers State,” he stated.
On the newly inaugurated palace, Fubara described the project as historic, marking the first time in over 200 years that the Akpor Kingdom has received a palace. He recalled that, during the flag-off of the Okania-Ogbogoro Road reconstruction 10 months ago, he had promised to build the palace in response to a request from the people, and the project was completed just six months later.
“I was truly touched, to the point of shedding a few tears, when the Royal Father spoke and said that in over 200 years of the Akpor Kingdom’s existence, it had never had a palace,” he said. “But God does not make mistakes. Perhaps He destined it to be fulfilled during our administration so that we will be part of history forever in the Akpor Kingdom.”
Fubara further explained that, in addition to constructing the palace, his administration also provided a personal residence for the Nyeweali, ensuring that the king’s family would have a home beyond the palace. “After living in such a fine place, what happens to his family when he leaves? We had to provide a personal residence for him,” the governor added.
During the ceremony, Fubara was honored with the chieftaincy title of “Eze Omenma 1 of Akpor Kingdom,” which he pledged to uphold. He expressed gratitude to the Akpor people and acknowledged the support of the Obio/Akpor people, emphasizing their strategic importance in his administration.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Eze Oha Apara (IV), the Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, His Majesty Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, who praised Governor Fubara for his administration’s respect for traditional institutions. Worlu-Wodo, who also serves as the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, highlighted the role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace and simplifying governance.
“Traditional rulers play vital roles in maintaining peace and order within communities, thereby simplifying governance at the state level,” he explained. He also commended Fubara for his commitment to strengthening traditional leadership. “Your Excellency, I am honoured to witness your goodwill, respect, and commitment to strengthening the traditional institution. You have done well, and we are all proud of you,” Worlu-Wodo added.
The Rivers State Commissioner for Special Projects, Rowland Obed-Whyte, provided further details about the project, revealing that construction began in August 2024 and was completed within six months.
