In a show of unity, Governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have offered their full support for the leadership of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirming his control over the party’s structure in the state. The endorsement came during a solemn visit by Governor Fubara to Bauchi State, where he expressed his condolences to Governor Bala Mohammed following the passing of his stepmother.
Governor Mohammed, who also serves as the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, welcomed Fubara’s visit and used the opportunity to publicly praise his leadership. “We have no qualms against anybody,” Mohammed said, emphasizing the unity within the party. “All the governors are with you.” His words underlined the collective backing that Fubara enjoys from his fellow governors within the party.
This show of solidarity is crucial given the ongoing power struggle in Rivers State. Fubara, who assumed office as the governor of Rivers in May 2023, has been locked in a fierce political battle with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has been a dominant figure within the PDP in Rivers, but his influence has come under challenge since Fubara’s rise to power. The conflict reached a pivotal moment recently when the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP reaffirmed its recognition of the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive, which is loyal to Fubara.
Governor Mohammed, in his statement, emphasized that Fubara’s leadership of the Rivers PDP is essential for maintaining the balance of power within the party, particularly as it seeks to strengthen its position as the opposition in the country. He described Fubara’s stewardship as a reflection of the democratic ideals the PDP stands for.
In response, Fubara expressed his gratitude to Governor Mohammed and his fellow PDP governors for their unwavering support. “I am deeply appreciative of the solidarity shown by the forum,” Fubara said, underscoring the importance of party unity moving forward.
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The conflict in Rivers is not just about the political future of Fubara and Wike but also represents a larger battle for control within the PDP at a critical time for the party. With national elections approaching and the need to present a united front, the governors’ backing of Fubara signals their intent to forge a strong and cohesive opposition platform.
As the PDP works to maintain its influence and reclaim power, the situation in Rivers serves as a glimpse of the broader challenges the party faces. The full backing of Fubara by his fellow governors is a testament to the crucial role unity will play in the party’s efforts to regain momentum, not just in Rivers, but across the nation.
