Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a candid and deeply personal revelation about his political ordeal, declaring that he is no longer desperate to return to office. Speaking with a tone of clarity and peace, Fubara shared that his heart had long detached from the seat of power, stating plainly: “My spirit left the Government House long ago.”
Fubara’s comments came during a solemn Night of Tributes organized in honour of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. The event, hosted by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, took place at the Royal House of Grace Church in Port Harcourt. It drew political figures, community leaders, and citizens who came to celebrate the life and legacy of a man remembered for his unwavering stand on justice, peace, and national unity.
Taking the stage, Fubara did not use the moment to rally political support or stoke conflict. Instead, he offered restraint, reflection, and honesty. He acknowledged the widespread support he had received during turbulent times but stressed that not every battle was worth fighting—and that not every return to power is worth seeking.
“I’ve been to many events since March 18,” Fubara said, referencing the turning point in his political journey. “But I’ve kept quiet. I don’t speak unless the atmosphere aligns with what I believe in. Because many people don’t really understand what’s going on behind the scenes.”
He continued with quiet strength, “This gathering is for Pa Clark. I came because he was special to me. This is the best way I can honour him—not by talking politics, but by showing up.”
Fubara, visibly more relaxed and at peace, urged his supporters and sympathizers not to twist the event into a political rally targeting his predecessor, Minister Nyesom Wike, or President Bola Tinubu. He emphasized that his presence was not a provocation but a tribute.
“It’s not about Sim Fubara,” he said plainly. “Please don’t make it about me. If I had my way, I wouldn’t return to Government House. Just look at me—I look better now. I have peace. That place took too much. And sometimes, when peace returns to your soul, you realise what really matters.”
Fubara’s tone was not one of defeat but of deep reflection. He made it clear that loyalty to those who stood by him does not mean endorsing blind aggression. He urged his supporters to practice caution and wisdom.
“In life, we must stand by those who made sacrifices for us. But that doesn’t mean we shoot in every direction. We must be strategic. Let’s not create more tension than already exists.”
The Governor’s remarks were supported by a statement later released by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi. In it, Fubara called on his followers to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and to emulate his path of calm and constructive engagement. He warned that some recent statements made by allies risked escalating an already fragile situation.
“As a leader, I bear a heavy responsibility,” he stated in the release. “My goal is peace and stability—not just for myself, but for the people of Rivers State. We must tread carefully. There is too much at stake.”
Fubara also expressed gratitude for the quiet peace he now enjoys, describing a renewed sense of well-being and clarity since distancing himself from the daily turmoil of the Government House.
Throughout the service, the theme of peace and reconciliation resonated strongly. In his homily, Apostle Zilly Aggrey drew from the scriptures—James 4:13–16, Hebrews 12:14–15, and Matthew 7:12—urging political actors to seek healing and unity above personal ambitions. He called on all parties involved in the Rivers State crisis to lay down arms and come to the table for the sake of the state’s future.
The Apostle also recognized former Governor Nyesom Wike for his instrumental role in Fubara’s rise, encouraging him to now play a pivotal role in reconciliation. He praised President Tinubu’s efforts at calming the storm in Rivers State but added that more decisive steps were needed to safeguard democratic governance.
Other speakers echoed similar sentiments. Former Governor Rufus George, Deputy Governor Gabriel Toby, and Senators Benneth Birabi and John Azuta Mbata all called for healing and reaffirmed their commitment to the legacy of Pa Clark—one of selfless leadership and unwavering commitment to justice in the Niger Delta.
Also in attendance were several notable figures, including Professor Atuboyedia Obianime, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, activist Ms. Ann Kio Briggs, and Professor Roseline Konya. Fubara was accompanied by respected leaders such as Senator Adawari Michael Pepple, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka, and Dr. Edison Ehie, among others.
Together, they formed a dignified gathering—not of political warriors—but of elders and advocates determined to honour the life of a man who stood for truth in a turbulent region.
As the tributes concluded, what lingered was not the tension of conflict, but the possibility of a new path—one defined not by office or power, but by integrity, peace, and purpose.
