Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Rivers State Elders Council has appealed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly to set aside past grievances and work together for peace, unity, and development, following the end of emergency rule in the state.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its chairman, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, and titled “End Of Emergency Rule: Let’s Unite For the Peace And Progress Of Our Dear State,” the council urged all stakeholders to embrace reconciliation and avoid actions that could reignite political instability.

The elders commended Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his role in brokering peace between Governor Fubara and the Assembly, as well as President Bola Tinubu for intervening to avert a political and security crisis.

“As the end of the emergency rule in our dear State beckons, and restoration of full democratic governance ushers in Governor Siminilayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon Martins Amaewhule, this affords us an opportunity to reflect on where we are coming from, what to do to avoid recurrence, and how to sustain peace, unity and development,” the statement read.

The council warned against inflammatory rhetoric and urged individuals or groups still nursing grievances to desist from making divisive statements for personal gain.

“The crisis is over. Stakeholders should prioritize the interest of the state and allow Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly to work together without further distractions,” it added.

The elders noted that Fubara and the Assembly leadership had not only reconciled in Abuja but also affirmed their commitment to peace before President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

“That vow before Mr President remains sacrosanct. Therefore, going forward, they must work harmoniously in the interest of the state. The people of Rivers State expect nothing less from them,” the statement said.

The elders also praised Rivers residents for their patience during the emergency rule, describing it as a demonstration of faith in Tinubu’s administration.

They further lauded Wike as “a man with a large heart” who midwifed reconciliation and ensured all parties briefed the President firsthand on their commitments.

Tinubu was equally commended for his “astute resolution” of the crisis and his broader Renewed Hope Agenda, with the elders pledging the support of Rivers people going forward.

President Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly amid escalating political turmoil, governance paralysis, and security concerns. Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired) was appointed sole administrator for the duration of the emergency, while judicial institutions were left intact.

With the expiration of the emergency period, political leaders and stakeholders are expected to resume constitutional duties under restored democratic governance.