“Fubara Must Fully Implement Supreme Court Verdict – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to fully and swiftly implement the Supreme Court’s judgment on the political crisis in the state, emphasizing that Nigeria is a nation governed by the rule of law. Speaking at a meeting with the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) delegation at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu appealed for immediate action, urging PANDEF leaders to support the governor in executing the court’s verdict and implementing peace agreements previously reached.

The President reminded the delegation that he had personally intervened in the political dispute, both publicly and privately, and reiterated his advice to the governor to “stoop to conquer.” He stressed that once the Supreme Court has ruled, all parties must comply, regardless of personal opinions or political affiliations.

Tinubu also expressed disappointment that the initial agreement, which he brokered and both sides signed, had not been honored, and said the current situation was a result of that breakdown. He reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Rivers State and warned that they must not suffer because of political disagreements.

In Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara again pledged to implement the Supreme Court’s decision in full. Speaking at the inauguration of a new Judges Quarters built by his administration, he acknowledged the high cost of the prolonged political conflict, noting that resources had been wasted by both the executive and legislative arms. He reiterated that peace and the collective interest of Rivers State were more important than individual ambition, adding that his administration would continue to prioritize the development and stability of the state.

The House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, also emphasized the importance of peace and adherence to the law. Hosting a delegation from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Amaewhule condemned any attempt to divide the state along ethnic lines and said the lawmakers would continue to work for the unity and progress of Rivers.

The PANDEF delegation, led by King Alfred Diete-Spiff and former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah, praised Tinubu’s reforms and regional development efforts. They urged further intervention in the Rivers crisis and called for continued focus on infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism. President Tinubu assured the group of his administration’s commitment to the Southsouth region, citing the ongoing Lagos-Calabar coastal road project and improvements to regional ports.

The delegation included top political figures, traditional rulers, and civil society leaders, many of whom are known supporters of Governor Fubara. Among them were former PDP chairman Uche Secondus, former Rivers Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru, and Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN).

Tinubu urged PANDEF to support young leaders driving community development, singling out Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of NDDC, for commendation. He encouraged the group to “go back home and take charge of peace,” promising continued federal support and open communication.

Meanwhile, Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Chibuzor Amadi, described the newly inaugurated Judges Quarters as a significant milestone. He thanked the governor for completing the project, which was initiated under the previous administration, and said it would improve the welfare and independence of judicial officers.