Fubara: My spirit left Rivers Government house long ago

Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, on Sunday revealed that he no longer wishes to return to office, saying his “spirit” left the Government House long before his suspension by President Bola Tinubu on March 18.

Fubara made the comment during a Night of Tributes organised by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum in honour of late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. It was his first public appearance since his suspension.

“If I had my way, I wouldn’t want to return,” Fubara said. “My spirit left the Government House long ago.” His remark, laced with emotion, reflected the toll of the political crisis in the state.

The statement sparked reactions from the camp of former Governor Nyesom Wike. In a post on X, Wike’s ally, Lere Olayinka, responded sarcastically: “It is not really compulsory to stay in a marriage your spirit already left. Simply opt out legally.”

Fubara, however, clarified that his presence at the event was solely to honour Pa Clark, not to make political statements. “Being here, silently honouring him, is the most meaningful tribute I can offer,” he said.

He disapproved of political remarks made at the event, saying: “This programme is a tribute to Pa Clark. It’s not about Sim Fubara. Even though I respect the message from the bishop, today is not the time for political declarations.”

The suspended governor added that he is now at peace, saying, “Look at me. I look better now. I have peace. Do you really think I’m interested in going back?”

Fubara expressed gratitude to his supporters but stressed the need for reflection. “Many people made sacrifices for me. That’s why I must stand by them. But not every battle is worth fighting. We must ask: what exactly are we fighting for?”

In a statement issued by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara advised his supporters to avoid inflammatory remarks and adopt his approach of restraint and peacebuilding.

He warned that confrontational rhetoric could escalate tensions, reaffirming his commitment to lawful leadership. “I remain conscious of the weight of responsibility on my shoulders,” he said. “I am committed to acting within the law to restore stability and move Rivers State forward.”