Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has lauded Rivers State Governor Similayi Fubara, describing him as a “restorer of the glory” of the oil-rich state and likening him to Moses in the Bible.
Atiku’s remarks were delivered through his aide, Hon. Dimeji Fabiyi, at an event held in Port Harcourt on Monday. The occasion was organized by the Nice Esther For All Foundation to mark the United Nations Day Against Violence Against Women.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, emphasized the significant role of women in driving societal progress.
“Women have continued to be agents of positive change through generations. Our common destiny to a better future is only a reality when we give women the support and encouragement that they require to lead the charge for social reforms,” he said.
Fabiyi, representing Atiku, highlighted the positive transformation taking place in Rivers State under Governor Fubara’s leadership. “In Rivers, there is a leader called Governor Similayi Fubara, who possesses a manifestation of the prophecy of Moses, by being a restorer of peace and glory to his people,” he stated.
Fabiyi added, “Rivers, we must all remember, has a long history of being the political capital of the South-South. The city of Port Harcourt occupies a pride of place in our beautiful country, and that is a fact that no one can deny.
“We give thanks to the Almighty God that He has chosen to add to the many blessings of Rivers State by making His Excellency Similayi Fubara the Governor of this great state today.”
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Drawing parallels with the biblical Moses, Fabiyi remarked, “One of the stories in the scriptures that both main religions in Nigeria have in common is the story of Moses. God favors the people of Israel, and He sent Moses to deliver them from the wickedness of Pharaoh.
“The major lesson in the story of Moses is that Moses was raised in the palace of the Pharaoh. Anyone who knows that story very well will know that Governor Fubara is the Moses of today and that the people of Rivers State are God’s people.”
Fabiyi went on to praise Fubara for overcoming political challenges, stating, “Today, in Port Harcourt, we have a governor who has flushed away the footprints of political godfathers who thought they could play God. And today, we are proud and certain that God is on our side, not just in Rivers State but also all over Nigeria.”
Atiku conveyed his gratitude to Governor Fubara for his “enviable courage, doggedness, and wisdom in the face of provocations,” assuring him of unwavering support in his mission to improve the lives of Rivers residents. “Fubara is the Moses God has blessed you with to take you to the promised land, and he must be supported by all in the mission,” Atiku urged.
The former Vice President also commended the organizers of the event, led by Dr. Nice Alameyeseigha, for their advocacy against gender-based violence and their efforts to empower women and children.
Addressing the host, Atiku said, “I recognize your efforts and appreciate you for what you’re doing. As my unapologetic supporter, if not for my birthday that coincides with this event today,
“I should have been there to honor you in person. I thank you immensely and appreciate you for being a shining light and strong voice in the advocacy for women’s and children’s development, care, and empowerment. There is nothing like impacting humanity.”
