Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents, including members of the Muslim community in the state.

Fubara gave the assurance on Friday at Government House, Port Harcourt, while receiving a delegation of the Muslim Ummah led by Alhaji Nasir Uhor, Vice President-General of the Rivers State Council for Islamic Affairs.

The delegation, comprising Islamic clerics and leaders of the Arewa community in the state, paid a Salah homage to the governor as part of activities marking Eid al-Fitr.

The governor emphasised that all residents, irrespective of their state of origin or religious affiliation, are regarded as indigenes of Rivers State by virtue of their residence and contributions to the state’s socio-economic development.

“You are here doing business and living here; you are Rivers people. Even if not by birth, your presence, investments and families here give us every reason to assure you that your lives and property will be protected. We will continue to make Rivers State safe for all,” he said.

Fubara commended the Muslim faithful for their dedication during the fasting period, describing Ramadan as a spiritually rewarding exercise.

On security, particularly concerns over farmers-herders conflicts recorded in other parts of the country, the governor noted that Rivers State has maintained relative peace through proactive engagement and coordination with security agencies.

He, however, urged Islamic leaders to strengthen internal communication within their communities to ensure continued peaceful conduct.

“As leaders, you must continue to guide your people and ensure they conduct themselves responsibly in their host communities. We all have a role to play in sustaining peace in the state,” he added.

Fubara also acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the state government and the Muslim community, appreciating their support and prayers before and after his assumption of office.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, the governor assured that requests earlier presented by the group were under consideration and would be addressed in line with available resources.

Earlier, Uhor thanked the governor for receiving the delegation and for promoting religious harmony in the state.

He presented key demands, including the construction of an ultra-modern central mosque in Port Harcourt, the return of the Muslim section of the Port Harcourt Cemetery to the council to address burial challenges, and the allocation of land for a mosque at Rivers State University.