The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, says the worst is over in the political crisis rocking the state.

He said having weathered the political storm, he could now concentrate and work for the development and progress of the state.

Fubara has been embroiled in a political crisis with his predecessor and estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike.

Last October, he survived an impeachment plot by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Wike.

Last week, Fubara secured a court order restraing the 25 pro-Wike lawmakers from performing legislative functions.

According to a Monday statement by his Chief Press Secretary,Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara spoke on Sunday at the thanksgiving reception organised by the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Ateke Tom, to celebrate his 60th birthday.

The event was held at the monarch’s residence in Okochiri town of the Okrika Local Government Area of the state, on Sunday evening.

The statement quoted Fubara as saying: “I identify with you, King Ateke Tom and I want to appreciate you for standing with us. As I said, the worst is over concerning the political crisis. What we are doing today is moving forward and advancing our state. And I am happy that you are one of my allies.

“I assure you the only thing that will be associated with our administration is success, success and more success,” he said.

Fubara noted that King Ateke Tom was not merely celebrating with drinks and food but included God in the event, stating how, in contemporary times, life expectancy continued to reduce because of lifestyle changes and other exposures like the effect of modern technology, which made attaining 60 a lofty feat.

“When one marks 40, we say thank God. Somebody has marked 50, and by the special grace of God, King Ateke Tom is celebrating 60. So, I want to thank God for his life, because it is only possible through God,” Fubara said.

The governor wished the monarch more glorious years on the throne and urged him to continue to promote peace and development, not only in the Okochiri Kingdom but in the entire Okrika land.

In his welcome address, former Minister of Transport and chairman on the occasion, Chief Abiye Sekibo, said the reception was auspicious for them because a revered son and king were being celebrated.

While expressing appreciation to Fubara for his presence, he said the Okrika people were resolved to sustain their support for him to ensure he succeeded in government.

The Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, King Douglas Jaja, noted that God had blessed King Ateke Tom within just one year of  Fubara’s administration.