Siminalayi Fubara has assured members of the Muslim community in Rivers State of continued protection of their lives and property, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among all residents irrespective of religion or ethnic background.

The governor gave the assurance on Friday at Government House, Port Harcourt, while receiving a delegation of Muslim leaders and members of the Arewa community who paid him a Salah homage to mark Eid al-Fitr.

Speaking during the visit, Fubara said every resident contributing to the growth of the state deserves equal treatment and protection.

According to him, those living and doing legitimate business in Rivers State should be regarded as part of the state, regardless of where they originally come from.

He said: “You live here, you do business here, and automatically you are Rivers people. We will continue to protect your lives and property.”

The governor also praised Muslim faithful for their discipline, sacrifice and spiritual devotion during the holy month of Ramadan, noting that the period reflects values of patience and selflessness.

On security, Fubara stated that although some parts of the country still face security challenges, Rivers has remained relatively peaceful through collaboration with security agencies and community leaders.

He urged Islamic leaders to continue engaging their followers on peaceful conduct and responsible behaviour to sustain harmony across the state.

“As leaders, you are close to your people. Keep talking to them so that together we can preserve peace in our state,” he added.

Earlier, leader of the delegation, Nasir Uhor, commended the governor for promoting religious inclusion and maintaining cordial relations with the Muslim community.

He also presented requests including the construction of a central mosque in Port Harcourt, return of the Muslim section of the Port Harcourt cemetery for burial purposes, and allocation of land for a mosque at Rivers State University.

The visit, observers say, further highlights efforts by the Rivers State Government to deepen interfaith understanding and strengthen unity in the state.