Emmanuel Oludare
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has strongly rebuked recent remarks by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who claimed that his political opponents lacked the capacity to challenge him.
Fubara, in a fiery response during a church service to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, dismissed Wike’s allegations of a state-sponsored attempt to bomb an event in his honour, emphasizing that those behind such claims have lost their way, politically and spiritually.
Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), had previously boasted that no political forces could stand against him, describing himself as too formidable to be challenged.
However, Governor Fubara, taking a swipe at Wike without mentioning his name directly, stated, “It is only an empty container that makes noise.”
He added that he remains steadfast in doing what is right for Rivers State, without needing anyone’s validation or support.
Fubara, addressing a congregation at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Port Harcourt, underscored his resolve to lead the state with integrity, noting that he would not compromise his principles for loyalty.
“I don’t need anybody to stand with me. I cannot give my kidney or liver to anybody… But I will not do the wrong thing. I will stand for the side of right,” he declared, in what was perceived as a subtle reference to Wike’s style of leadership.
The Rivers State Governor highlighted several significant projects initiated under his administration, contrasting them with Wike’s achievements during his eight-year tenure.
Fubara pointed out that he was responsible for securing a N200 billion loan from Zenith Bank for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road and awarding the Trans-Kalabari Road project—critical infrastructure that Wike’s administration could not complete.
“They did only a bridge from Krakrama, but I am the one doing the complete span,” Fubara said, stressing that he was able to fund the N225 billion project without borrowing additional funds.
Fubara also emphasized his commitment to improving healthcare in the state, including the construction of a General Hospital with a psychiatric facility. In a sharp jab, he remarked, “I included a Psychiatric Hospital because they will need it very soon.”
In what appeared to be a dig at Wike’s perceived self-interest, Fubara assured Rivers residents that his projects are for the people, not for personal business gains.
“Whatever I am doing, I am doing it for the people of Rivers State. We will not take any decision that we cannot defend. We won’t be part of anything that will bring disgrace to our dear state,” he stated.
Fubara further attributed the ongoing political strife to his administration’s success in boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“That is why they are struggling,” he said, referencing the tension between him and Wike. “But do it with modesty, you don’t need to destroy the house.”
The governor also took the opportunity to predict that those pursuing “evil agendas” would soon face disgrace, noting that God allows time for repentance but eventually delivers judgment.
“Anybody that is making noise for recognition, it is a sign that he has lost it,” Fubara added, affirming that he has no need for such attention.
Despite the ongoing crisis, Fubara reiterated his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), calling for peace ahead of the local government elections in the state.
He urged the people of Rivers State to remain united, emphasizing that the state’s progress and stability should be the priority for all.
In a final remark, Fubara asserted his leadership with confidence, stating, “By the special grace of God, I don’t need introduction. I have the name, and I am the one standing here.”
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