Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has stated that his decision to embrace what critics call “weakness” was motivated by the necessity for peace and survival, dedicating his Man of the Year award to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
On Friday, while accepting his honor at the New Telegraph Honor/Dinner Night in Lagos, Fubara gave an emotional speech about leadership, political pressure, and reconciliation.
“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know for believing in me, you have a share of special pain,” the governor said.
Addressing the long-standing political tensions that have defined Rivers State’s government landscape, Fubara noted that his approach has frequently been misconstrued.
“Some of these pains, some persons describe them as weakness, while others say it is being strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak, because I want peace.
“Weak, because we need to survive. Weak, because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” he said.
In a statement likely to stir political conversations, the governor added, “Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”
Fubara thanked his family and the people of Rivers State for their patience and maturity during months of political uncertainty.
“To the wonderful people of Rivers State that have shown support, shown quietness, and shown maturity that has brought us this far,” he said.
He then dedicated the medal, both directly and symbolically, to Wike, his predecessor and political benefactor.
“I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it; I also dedicate this award to somebody who also discovered me, not minding the situation, the Honourable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike.
“He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness,” Fubara stated.
The governor’s statements come amid recent hints of reducing tensions between the two leaders following President Bola Tinubu’s mediation.
Chronicle NG reports that the rivalry between Wike and Fubara showed indications of softening after what was described as a “final” intervention by the President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Wike, speaking after reviewing projects in Abuja, expressed hope about the reconciliation process, stating, “By God’s help, this will be the last time.
“All I can tell you is that Mr. President has been very kind to the people of the state. If there seems to be a problem between the legislature and the governor, as a father, he really has to intervene.”
Fubara had also openly acknowledged Wike’s involvement during the Port Harcourt Ring Road project inspection, referring to the minister as “My Oga” and crediting him with the initiative’s conception.
The political struggle between the two leaders, which began shortly after Fubara took office in May 2023, has resulted in severe divides within the Rivers State House of Assembly, impeachment threats, and months of governance uncertainty.
Recent developments, however, indicate a shift toward stabilization, including the governor’s reported submission of a new list of commissioner nominees to the Assembly as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts.
