Governor Fubara to Wike: Rivers State Belongs to the People, Not an Individual
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a bold declaration, stating that no single individual can lay claim to controlling the state. His comments came during a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt on Sunday, signaling his strong stance amid growing political tension between him and former governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Political Tensions Rise in Rivers State
On the previous day, the elders of the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) extended an apology to Nyesom Wike on behalf of Governor Fubara. This apology, tendered at an event organized by the Ijaw Peoples Congress in honor of Wike, aimed to mend the rift between the two political figures. The elders described Fubara as politically inexperienced and sought Wike’s forgiveness for the fallout.
During the event, Wike openly took credit for Fubara’s emergence as the governor of Rivers State, intensifying the already strained relationship between them.
Fubara Stands His Ground
Addressing the congregation at St. Paul’s Cathedral of the Anglican Communion, Governor Fubara made it clear that no one speaks or apologizes on his behalf. Rejecting the apology offered by the PDP elders, he stressed that he would not compromise his principles for loyalty to any individual, no matter the cost.
“Nobody can apologize for me,” Fubara asserted. “If I am the only person who needs to stand on the side of what is right, I will do so alone. I will not give my kidney or liver to anyone. If loyalty requires me to sacrifice my integrity, I will not be loyal.”
The governor further emphasized his dedication to serving the people of Rivers State, stating that his primary responsibility is to protect the state’s interests. “I will stand for what is right and for the truth for the people of Rivers. That is my commitment. Rivers State does not belong to any individual, it is not anyone’s enterprise,” he declared.
Defending the Sovereignty of Rivers State
Governor Fubara’s defiant stance reflects his view that political loyalty should not come at the expense of ethical governance. He suggested that individuals seeking recognition through political noise are often those who have lost their influence, indirectly referencing Wike.
Fubara continued, “God has a reason for allowing evil to persist, giving time for repentance. But when they refuse to change, He will intervene heavily. That will be our story in this state.” His message was clear: no individual or group can claim ownership of Rivers State, and he will remain steadfast in safeguarding the state's autonomy.
A Growing Rift in the PDP
The ongoing confrontation between Governor Fubara and Nyesom Wike has led to a widening schism within the PDP in Rivers State, polarizing both the party and members of the state’s House of Assembly. As the struggle for control of the political structure continues, the future of the party’s unity in Rivers remains uncertain.
Fubara’s statements underscore his commitment to the people of Rivers State, while simultaneously signaling that he will not be swayed by external pressures or attempts to undermine his authority as governor. The political landscape in Rivers appears to be entering a new phase, with Fubara asserting himself as a leader who will not sacrifice his values for political expediency
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