Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State received the prestigious New Telegraph Man of the Year Siminalayi Fubara Dedicates New Telegraph Man of the Year Award to Wike on Friday night at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.
The event was chaired by veteran journalist and former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba.
According to the organisers, the awards recognised individuals and organisations that distinguished themselves through outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s development in both the public and private sectors.
While receiving the award, Fubara delivered an emotional speech reflecting on leadership, political pressure and reconciliation. He dedicated the honour to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The governor explained that his decision to embrace what critics described as “weakness” was motivated by his desire for peace and political survival.
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He described the occasion as special for himself and those who believed in him, noting that their support had come with its share of pain.
Addressing the political tensions in Rivers State, particularly involving his predecessor, Wike, Fubara said his approach had often been misunderstood.
He acknowledged that while some interpreted his restraint as weakness and others as strength, he deliberately chose what many termed “weakness” for several reasons.
He said he prioritised peace, survival and the protection of values dear not only to him but to the nation at large.
Fubara expressed appreciation to the people of Rivers State for their support, patience and maturity. He also credited Wike for discovering him politically, stating that the discovery brought him into prominence.
