Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has taken a firm stand against compromising his values or well-being for political loyalty, declaring that no individual or group can control the state. Speaking during an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Cathedral of the Anglican Communion in Port Harcourt, the governor reiterated his commitment to making decisions in the best interest of the state, even if it means standing alone.
Fubara, addressing the ongoing political tension in the state, stressed his refusal to give in to external pressures or personal sacrifices to prove his loyalty to anyone. “I cannot give my kidney or liver to anybody as a testament of loyalty,” Fubara stated firmly, adding that his allegiance is solely to the people of Rivers State and to what is right.
“I belong to that school of thought that stands on the side of what is right. Even if I am the only person on that side, I will stand there. I don’t need anybody to stand with me,” the governor added. His remarks come amidst rising tensions with Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with whom he has been at odds over the control of the political structure in Rivers State.
The political rift between Wike and Fubara has escalated recently, with Wike claiming credit for making Fubara governor. In response, Fubara emphasized that no one should apologize on his behalf, in reference to a public apology issued to Wike by the elders’ forum of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers, who pleaded for reconciliation between the two.
Addressing the congregation, Fubara declared, “Nobody can apologize for me. If loyalty means giving my kidney or liver, I won’t do it. But I will always stand on the side of the truth and what is right for Rivers people.”
Fubara also highlighted his administration’s achievements, referencing the construction of a General Hospital and a Psychiatric Hospital within his first year, comparing his progress to the work done in previous administrations over eight years. “It is only an empty container that makes noise,” Fubara said, pointing out that his focus remains on the development of the state, not on political distractions.
In a veiled reference to Wike, Fubara stated, “Anyone making noise for recognition has already lost it. By the grace of God, I don’t need an introduction—I am the one standing here.”
The governor concluded by asserting that Rivers State is not anyone’s personal enterprise, reiterating his determination to protect the state’s integrity. “What is important is to protect this state. It does not belong to anyone. Rivers State is nobody’s enterprise, and I will not mortgage my principles for anyone.”
The political friction between Fubara and Wike has polarized the PDP in Rivers State, affecting the party’s internal structure and creating divisions within the state’s political landscape. However, Fubara remains resolute in his stance, affirming that his priority is the well-being of the people of Rivers, not personal political gain.
