Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents, including members of the Muslim community, while promoting peaceful coexistence across the state.
The governor made the pledge on Friday at Government House in Port Harcourt when he received a delegation of the Muslim Ummah led by Alhaji Nasir Uhor, Vice President General of the Rivers State Council for Islamic Affairs. The delegation, comprising Islamic clerics and leaders of the Arewa community, paid a Sallah homage as part of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
Governor Fubara stressed that every resident, regardless of origin or religious affiliation, should be regarded as an indigene of Rivers State due to their contributions to its socio-economic development.
“You’re here doing business, automatically you live here. You’re a Rivers indigene, even if you’re not by birth. Because you’ve been living here, raising families and investing here, we have every reason to assure you that your lives and property will be protected,” he said.
He commended the Muslim faithful for their dedication during the holy month of Ramadan, describing the fasting period as a “wonderful journey” that reflects deep spiritual commitment.
On security, the governor noted that Rivers State has maintained relative peace despite tensions such as farmers-herders clashes reported in other parts of the country. He attributed this to proactive engagement and coordination with security agencies, while urging Islamic leaders to strengthen internal communication among their members to sustain peace.
“You are closer to your people as leaders. Engage them and encourage peaceful conduct in the communities where they live and work so that we can all move at the same pace for the peace of our state,” he added.
Fubara also recalled the longstanding relationship between the state government and the Muslim community, acknowledging their prayers and support before and after he assumed office. He assured the delegation that their earlier requests were under review and would be addressed based on the state’s capacity.
In his remarks, Alhaji Uhor thanked the governor for his commitment to religious inclusivity and for granting the delegation audience. He presented key requests, including the construction of an ultra-modern central mosque in Port Harcourt, the return of the Muslim section of the Port Harcourt Cemetery to the council, and the allocation of land for a mosque at the Rivers State University.
