Rivers Crisis: Why I Said Dogs Are Barking — Fubara

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has finally addressed the impeachment proceedings initiated against him by the State House of Assembly, shedding light on his earlier remark that dogs bark when they do not understand why they bark.

The governor spoke publicly for the first time on the matter on a day his immediate predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, responded to renewed calls demanding his removal from office. Wike stated clearly that the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reserves the right to dismiss him if he believes he no longer has value to offer.

At the same time, the Rivers State House of Assembly raised concerns over what it described as covert efforts to illegally obtain court orders aimed at stopping the legislature from exercising its constitutional duties.

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Why I Said Dogs Are Barking — Fubara Explains

Governor Fubara made his remarks during a church service held to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at St. Cyprian Anglican Church, Port Harcourt. Addressing worshippers, the governor urged residents of Rivers State to remain calm and assured them that the situation would eventually stabilize.

According to him, his decision to stay quiet amid political distractions was intentional and deeply rooted in his faith in God. He emphasized that silence should not be mistaken for weakness or ignorance.

In his words:

“I said something that dogs bark when they don’t understand. Now, see, I think a lot of you don’t understand, and that’s the reason I don’t shout, I don’t complain. I know what I have.”

The governor went further to explain that his confidence comes from a higher authority, stating that his reliance on God gives him peace in turbulent times.

“I know that I have what is supreme and that is God. So, I want everyone to relax. What is important is peace for this dear state, and we will get it by the special name of God.”

His message focused on unity, restraint, and the need to prioritize peace over political tension.

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Deputy Governor Calls for Good Conduct and Prayers

Speaking at the same church service, the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Odu, expressed appreciation to attendees for honoring the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

She encouraged citizens to conduct themselves responsibly, echoing the sermon delivered by the Dean of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop Blessing Eyinda, who reminded the congregation that every action would eventually be remembered and judged.

Professor Odu also appealed to residents to continue supporting the administration through prayers, describing spiritual backing as the foundation sustaining the current government.

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Wike and Assembly Speaker Avoid Impeachment Comments

Despite growing political tension, both Nyesom Wike and the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, avoided making direct comments regarding the impeachment process.

Wike concluded his statewide “Thank You” tour across the 23 local government areas with a grand finale held in his hometown, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.

Addressing supporters at the rally, the FCT Minister stressed his identity as a politician, not a cleric or media personality.

“I have told everybody that I am not a trader. I have never told anybody that I am a pastor. I never told anybody that I was a public commentator or a journalist. I chose to be a politician. Choose what you want to be in life.”

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Tinubu Can Sack Me If He Chooses — Wike

Reacting to calls for his removal, Wike maintained that President Tinubu has the constitutional authority to dismiss him if deemed necessary.

He emphasized that politics is driven by interests rather than emotions, insisting that leadership decisions must align with the people’s collective interest.

“Power is not given but taken,” Wike stated, highlighting the political influence of Obio/Akpor in Rivers State elections.

He asserted that no governor or senator from Rivers East has emerged without the backing of Obio/Akpor, warning critics not to underestimate the voting strength of the area.

Wike added that President Tinubu understands his political value and does not require external pressure to make decisions.

He further claimed that the President has contributed significantly to Rivers State and expressed confidence that the people would reciprocate the gesture during the 2027 general elections.

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Wike Dismisses PDP Atiku Loyalists

The minister also took a swipe at supporters of the 2023 PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, stating that they failed to deliver even 10 percent of votes in Rivers State during the last election.

According to him, such groups lack the capacity to mobilize support for President Tinubu.

“The President knows that we are the real Renewed Hope. We have seen battles before. This is a battle already won.”

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Alleged Plot to Halt Legislative Proceedings — Rivers Assembly

Meanwhile, the Rivers State House of Assembly accused unnamed individuals of plotting to illegally secure court injunctions to prevent the legislature from carrying out its constitutional functions.

In a statement signed by Enemi George, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, the Assembly revealed that intelligence reports suggested attempts to obtain court orders from high courts outside the Port Harcourt judicial division.

The lawmakers noted that those allegedly involved were aware of constitutional provisions governing legislative processes and judicial jurisdiction.

The Assembly cited Section 272(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines jurisdiction on matters relating to the tenure of governors and legislators, as well as Section 188(10), which explicitly bars courts from entertaining proceedings related to impeachment processes.