The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured that the right climate would be created for all political parties to operate so that they can engage with government and offer credible opposition.
The governor emphasised that it was the best thing to do, especially because the opposition political parties have acknowledged that elections are over and are resolved to offer effective support required to advance good governance in the state.
According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the governor spoke on Monday when he played host to the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Rivers State Chapter, led by its Chairman, Barr. Sensei Solsuema Osaro, at Government House in Port Harcourt.
Fubara stated that an egalitarian society would be engendered in Rivers so that people can feel free to voice their opinions without intimidation, because, according to him, those criticisms will contribute to having more focused implementation of policies that serve the general good of the state.
“So, we are happy to identify with you. We are assuring you, even when you leave here, criticise me, I don’t have problem with that, it is meant to spur me to do well. We will continue to give you the freedom. We will not cage anybody. We will not revoke your property.
“You can also take my message to your National Secretariat. We will continue to stand on the right path. We will support them because we can see that they are also doing what is right. Anytime they need our support, let them feel free to ask for it,” the governor said.
The Rivers governor commended IPAC for identifying with his administration and pledged to collaborate efforts for the good of the State.
Fubara explained that no person who truly loves Rivers State, whether embittered or not, will gladly want to burn down the state to achieve personal or political agenda.
The governor said whatever political strength anybody claimed to have, it amounted to nothing without the state and its people.
Fubara assured that his team in government will steadily work, genuinely, to protect the interest of the state.
While thanking the delegation for the vote of confidence passed on him and investing him as their Grand Patron, Governor Fubara urged them to tread the path of peace always in their activities.
The IPAC state chairman thanked Fubara for the opportunity to meet with them and announced that the body has passed a vote of confidence on him.
He also announced the decision of IPAC to honour the governor as the Grand Patron and Leader of the umbrella body of all political parties in the state.
“IPAC is a roundtable of political parties saddled with the responsibility of enlightenment, advocacy, educating, and inspiring courage among political parties and the society at large.
“With the elections come and gone, it is practically the time for governance and to ensure all derivables of dividends of democracy to the people of Rivers State.
“Herein lies the core of our visit today to forge a collaborative bond with you, His Excellency, to foster partnership for the overall interest of Rivers State.
“We heartily congratulate you on your victory at Supreme Court judgement, which affirmed your election at the polls.
“To this end, we in IPAC have passed a vote of confidence on His Excellency, and assure you of our collaborative, collective and individual support to succeed now, and in the course of your administration, and after,” he stated.