Former Niger Delta militant, Asari Dokubo, has called on the Rivers State governor, Sim Fubara, to retract his statement claiming that Rivers State is a Christian state.
In a tweet on May 31, shortly after being sworn in, Governor Fubara stated that the state would uphold its Christian values and govern with the fear of God.
“Rivers State is a Christian State, and God is our foundation. We shall govern with the fear of God and stay strong in our Christian values of trust, faith, love, care, and sacrifice,” the governor tweeted.
Responding to the governor during a Facebook Live session, Mr. Dokubo expressed his dismay, stating that Governor Fubara’s statement set a wrong precedent.
He emphasized that such a declaration goes against the principles of inclusivity and religious freedom.
Mr. Dokubo asserted that Rivers State belongs to individuals of all faiths, and the governor cannot unilaterally designate it as a Christian state.
“I am using this platform to advise Governor Sim Fubara to reconsider his statement. He needs to understand that Rivers State is not and will never be a Christian state. With such a declaration, it is clear that the governor is starting his term on the wrong path,” Mr. Dokubo added.
The call from Mr. Dokubo highlights the importance of respecting the religious diversity and fostering an environment of tolerance and unity in Rivers State. It remains to be seen how Governor Fubara will respond to this request and address the concerns raised by Mr. Dokubo.
