Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has thrown his support behind President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, saying continuity is essential to sustain ongoing reforms and national development.
Speaking on Thursday in Port Harcourt during a meeting of the Southern Traditional Rulers Council, Fubara said the current administration has made measurable progress despite prevailing challenges.
“There is visible advancement in economic recovery and infrastructure delivery, including major projects like the coastal road,” he said. “It is not ideal to change the goalposts in the middle of the game.”
Fubara emphasized that stability in leadership would help consolidate gains already made, while calling on stakeholders across southern Nigeria to work together. “Unity remains the cornerstone of sustainable development,” he added.
The governor also highlighted the significance of hosting the gathering in Rivers State, noting that the presence of monarchs from all 17 southern states underscores the state’s peaceful atmosphere and its capacity to host major national engagements.
Earlier, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who chairs the council, said the meeting was convened to promote peace and strengthen regional unity.
“This council reflects the diversity of our nation, with over 400 dialects spoken across the southern states. Yet, we stand united,” Ogunwusi said.
He explained that the Port Harcourt meeting is the fourth in the series, following earlier sessions in Imo State, Ogun State, and Lagos State. According to him, the forum serves as a platform for traditional rulers to engage on shared values and collective interests.
Ogunwusi further noted that the council would explore ways to support the federal government in tackling security and economic challenges. “Participation may be voluntary, but it is crucial for national repositioning,” he said.
The meeting drew prominent monarchs from the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions, including co-chairman Cletus Illomuanya and the Olubadan of Ibadan, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
