Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has recently made significant comments regarding the ongoing political crisis in the state, attributing it to a struggle for control over the state’s resources. He emphasized that these resources are meant for the people of Rivers State and assured them that his administration is committed to their judicious use for the betterment of the populace. Fubara shared these insights during a celebratory event at the Omega Power Ministries (OPM) headquarters, marking the 51st birthday of the General Overseer, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, along with the church’s 18th anniversary. The governor urged the congregation to continue their prayers for his administration, underscoring the importance of remaining focused amidst challenges and temptations that often distract those in governance.
According to Governor Fubara, the political turmoil in Rivers State is fundamentally about who controls the resources of the state, which he reiterated belong to the people. In his speech, he called upon the community to support his leadership through prayer, assuring them that their prayers would help maintain the administration’s focus on delivering good governance. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the church and conveyed that this backing has been crucial in navigating the difficulties faced by his government. Fubara emphasized the necessity of keeping the people’s interests at the forefront, stating that without divine intervention, the state might succumb to various challenges.
The governor also took the time to commend Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere for his philanthropic efforts and contributions to society. He highlighted the disrepair of public amenities that he inherited when taking office and praised the cleric’s initiatives aimed at improving education and vocational training for children. Fubara articulated his belief that life should be about giving rather than taking, and he recognized Chinyere’s selfless contributions to improving the lives of many in the community. The governor’s heartfelt acknowledgment of the cleric’s work aimed to motivate others in the community to contribute positively to society.
Furthermore, Governor Fubara expressed his appreciation for the prayers from both the OPM leadership and congregation, claiming that these prayers have been instrumental in sustaining his administration amid adversity. He announced a donation of N200 million to support the church’s ongoing infrastructure projects, reinforcing his commitment to collaborating with community leaders. He added that the prayers from the church community might significantly help his government overcome the current political challenges. The governor expressed confidence that with ongoing prayer support, his government would be able to rise above its present difficulties.
In the event, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, the wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, lauded Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere for his dedication to philanthropy and his role as a source of hope and strength in the community. Her encouragement for continued prayers from religious leaders was aimed at promoting peace in Rivers State, resonating with Fubara’s call for support. This kind of endorsement from a noted political figure adds weight to the collaborative efforts between government officials and religious leaders in addressing the needs and aspirations of the people.
Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere also spoke during the occasion about the importance of philanthropy within Christianity. He emphasized his dedication to empowering the girl child through education by establishing an all-girls technical college aimed at equipping young women with vocational skills that could help them avoid exploitative practices like prostitution. Chinyere highlighted the socioeconomic challenges faced by young women in the area, particularly those determined to pursue higher education but financially constrained. He argued that by providing girls with skills and trades before they enter university, they would be well-prepared to earn a living through their abilities rather than resorting to compromising means. His initiatives reflect a broader social commitment to uplift the community and combat the social issues encountered by women in Rivers State.