Governor Siminalayi Fubara has blamed the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers in the Rivers House of Assembly for his political predicament, which culminated in his controversial suspension from office by President Bola Tinubu following the declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich state.

The president announced the state of emergency on Tuesday night which Peoples Gazette had exclusively reported hours before the official declaration.

Mr Fubara made the remark in an address to the people of Rivers on Tuesday in Port Harcourt after the declaration of an emergency rule by the president.

Mr Tinubu cited worsening political impasse between the governor and most of the state lawmakers for the declaration.

The embattled Rivers governor said his administration had been guided by ‘’his constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty’’ since he assumed office.

“Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.

“This was why, immediately after Mr President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition,” said Mr Fubara.

He added, “Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.”

Mr Fubara insisted that despite political disagreements in the state, good governance had continued, salaries were being paid, and great projects were executed to move the state forward.

He pointed out that the state was safe, secure and peaceful under his watch.

“We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and the Rivers State continues to thrive,” Mr Fubara said.

Meanwhile, the president has appointed Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas to administer the state after sacking Mr Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the lawmakers.

(NAN)