The National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ini Ememobong, has revealed that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara actively discouraged party leaders and supporters from escalating conflicts during the political crisis in the state.

Ememobong made the remarks on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief programme.

According to him, throughout the crisis, Fubara consistently advised supporters against taking actions that could exacerbate tensions, with party leaders, including PDP governors, aligning their moves with the governor’s personal strategy to ensure his long-term stability.

“During that period, he discouraged people from fighting further,” Ememobong said. “Many commentators and attendees kept asking what the position was, but he consistently indicated that he would handle the matter. You cannot cry more than the bereaved at a funeral; too much visible agitation can be counterproductive.”

He noted that political allies acted based on Fubara’s guidance, prioritising his interests over immediate confrontation. “The PDP governors expressed their positions and took steps, but always in furtherance of his interests. You cannot take actions without his consent, only to complicate his strategy. When he was ready to fight, everyone fought alongside him.”

Citing the Rivers State local government elections as an example, Ememobong said, “During the elections, he had full support from all quarters. Even when state authorities tried to push him back, Nigerians rallied behind him and resisted.”

He concluded, “When you are not leading the fight from the front and advise people to hold back, they understand that pushing further could hurt your interest. Out of loyalty and respect, they follow your guidance.”