Fubara Urges Wike to Step Aside And Allow Him Govern Rivers State

Governor Siminalayi Fubara appeals to Nyesom Wike, urging him to prioritize governance over political control in Rivers

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a public appeal to his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, asking him to step back and let him govern the state without interference. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Fubara expressed his concerns about ongoing tensions between the two, emphasizing that it’s now time to focus on governance rather than political power plays. Using his focus keyphrase, Fubara urged Wike to allow governance in Rivers to take center stage, stressing that peace and unity should be prioritized for the benefit of the state.

Fubara acknowledged the contributions Wike made during his tenure, highlighting that Rivers State was the envy of many under his leadership. However, he expressed that governance requires the support of all stakeholders, and this is not a time for anyone to disrupt the state’s progress. Fubara further noted that any internal disputes should remain within the party and not spill over into public discourse, as these power struggles are counterproductive.

He reiterated that, while elections bring about political competition, this period is meant for governance, and efforts should be focused on reviving the state’s oil production, particularly in regions like Emohua and Degema, which are facing challenges. “We are working hard to boost our oil production, but adding internal issues to these challenges doesn’t help. This is an in-house matter that should remain private,” Fubara said, again underscoring his plea for Wike to allow governance in Rivers to proceed smoothly.

In response to a question about the source of the conflict, Fubara remained reserved but alluded to power and control being at the core of the issue. Despite this, he maintained that he would not dwell on the disagreement but instead continue his work as governor, ensuring the smooth operation of state affairs. Fubara emphasized that Rivers State’s progress is paramount, and leadership transitions are part of the political process, noting that after his tenure, others will also have their chance to lead.

Fubara concluded by reaffirming his commitment to maintaining peace, stressing that governance should be the state’s focus. He also welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention in the matter, despite being concerned that only his name was mentioned in the President’s statement. “The issue is not about Fubara, and everyone in Rivers and Nigeria knows where it stems from,” he said, once again stressing the importance of unity and urging Wike to allow governance in Rivers to be the priority.

By using his focus keyphrase throughout, Fubara made it clear that the people of Rivers deserve leadership centered on development and not political control struggles. He urged all parties involved to let governance prevail, emphasizing that only with peace and cooperation can the state achieve its full potential.