Fubara urges Rivers residents not to let politics undermine peace

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged residents to embrace peace and unity, saying both are essential to the state's development, PM News reports.

In a goodwill message for Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary, Fubara described Rivers as the "treasure base of the nation" and home to many ethnic groups. He said political differences are normal in a democracy but should not harm the state's interests. "We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State," he said.

The governor said his administration had treated peace as its most valuable infrastructure, and that relative calm had helped attract investment and projects across the three senatorial districts. He warned that a return to crisis would benefit nobody, and asked residents to back President Bola Tinubu's federal government.

Khana LGA chairman Thomas Bariere also urged residents to reject division, and pledged to improve security and create opportunities for young people and women.