Fubara Attends Thanksgiving Service, Urges Prayers as He Resumes Governorship

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Sunday attended his first church service since being reinstated as governor, using the moment to reflect on recent political turbulence and call for sustained prayers for peace and stability in the state.

Fubara, accompanied by his wife Valerie, top government officials, and political stakeholders, worshipped at Saint Paul’s Anglican Church in Opobo, Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area. His visit coincided with the church’s 2025 Harvest of Divine Possibilities, though the governor stressed that his presence was for quiet thanksgiving.

“Nothing could equal God’s goodness other than a quiet and pure-hearted worship,” he said.

Gratitude After a Political Storm

Fubara’s return to church marks a symbolic reset following months of political crisis in Rivers State. His administration was rocked by a bitter power struggle with former governor and now FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who had backed Fubara’s election in 2023 but later clashed with him over control of state structures and resources.

The feud plunged the state into political chaos, splitting the House of Assembly, triggering impeachment moves, and even leading to the burning of the Assembly complex. Violence and protests followed, prompting President Bola Tinubu to declare a six-month state of emergency in March 2025 to restore order.

That emergency was lifted last Wednesday, September 18, with Tinubu formally reinstating Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all Assembly members. Democratic governance in the oil-rich state officially resumed at midnight.

Supporters celebrated Fubara’s reinstatement with jubilation, thronging the Government House gates in Port Harcourt as early as 6 am Thursday, waving flags, dancing, and chanting solidarity songs.

Call for Prayers and Peace

During Sunday’s service, Governor Fubara thanked the congregation for their steadfast prayers, saying they “sustained his family and administration during turbulent times.”

According to him, such intercession had “averted shame and brought divine intervention” at critical moments.

“As we begin afresh, I urge the Church not to relent. Your continued intercession is needed to guide this administration and keep our state on the path of peace,” Fubara said.

The governor’s message was especially timely, coming on the International Day of Peace. He urged Rivers residents to put aside bitterness, embrace reconciliation, and prioritize unity.

The church’s vicar, Venerable Emmanuel Nwuju, led a special prayer session for the governor, his family, and the entire state leadership.

A New Beginning for Rivers

Political observers say Sunday’s thanksgiving service underscores Fubara’s attempt to project calm and reassure citizens that his government is focused on delivering governance after months of distractions.

While challenges remain, including rebuilding trust between rival factions and repairing damaged state institutions, Fubara’s tone suggested a commitment to reconciliation.

The next few weeks are expected to be crucial as the governor restarts policy implementation, re-engages the legislature, and rebuilds confidence in the state’s governance structures.

For now, Fubara appears keen to frame his reinstatement as a divine second chance, one that calls for gratitude, prayer, and renewed dedication to the people of Rivers State.

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