Former Rivers State Governor, Dr Peter Odili, has publicly expressed support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, assuring him that the people of the state remain firmly behind his leadership amid ongoing political tensions.
According to a report by Daily Post on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Odili gave the assurance during a public engagement held in Port Harcourt, where he addressed political developments and governance challenges currently affecting Rivers State.
The event brought together political leaders, community representatives, and other stakeholders who gathered to hear Odili’s views on the unfolding situation within the state’s political landscape.
Speaking at the gathering, Odili acknowledged that Rivers State is going through a period of political strain, with disputes that have affected governance, legislative activities, and relationships among key political actors.
He emphasized the need for leadership stability and public confidence, stressing that elected officials have a responsibility to uphold order, continuity, and unity, especially during periods of uncertainty.
The former governor used the platform to speak directly to Governor Fubara, who was present at the event, and to convey what he described as the collective position of Rivers residents on the question of leadership.
Odili told the audience that people across the state continue to see Fubara as the legitimate political leader entrusted with directing the affairs of Rivers State.
He said the message was not his personal opinion, but one that had been passed on to him by residents who wanted it clearly communicated to the governor.
“Your people are with you, and they have asked me to tell you that you are the political leader of Rivers State,” Odili said, drawing attention to what he described as widespread public support for the current administration.
His remarks came against the backdrop of political disputes that have shaped events in Rivers State in recent months, including disagreements that have impacted legislative processes and political alignments.
The crisis has generated national attention, with debates focusing on authority, loyalty, and the constitutional roles of various political actors within the state.
Odili framed his intervention as a message of reassurance rather than confrontation, avoiding direct references to individuals or factions involved in the disputes.
Observers at the event noted that Odili’s comments carried significant weight due to his history as a two-term governor and his longstanding influence in Rivers State politics.
They described his appearance as an attempt to reinforce institutional continuity and calm political tensions by reaffirming public confidence in the sitting governor.
Throughout his address, Odili highlighted the importance of unity and responsible leadership, urging political actors to prioritize the interests of the state over personal or factional disagreements.
He stressed that governance should remain focused on serving the people, regardless of political differences or power struggles.
Governor Fubara listened as the former governor spoke about leadership expectations, public trust, and the responsibilities that come with holding executive office.
The event did not involve policy pronouncements or formal directives, but it provided an avenue for senior political figures to speak on issues indirectly affecting governance and political stability in Rivers State.
Those in attendance said the engagement reflected ongoing efforts by prominent individuals to address the political situation through dialogue and public engagement rather than escalation.
The political climate in Rivers State remains a subject of active discussion among residents, analysts, and political stakeholders, with attention focused on how the current tensions will be managed in the coming months.
Many observers are watching closely to see whether such interventions will help ease divisions and restore smoother cooperation among arms of government in the state.
As Rivers State continues its routine administration under Governor Fubara, public statements like Odili’s add to a series of engagements aimed at shaping perceptions and reinforcing leadership authority during a challenging period.
The Port Harcourt event marked another moment in the evolving political narrative of the state, highlighting the role of influential voices in navigating disputes and reaffirming public confidence in governance.
