Politics
Fubara Vs Wike: Ex-President Jonathan Mediates In Rivers Political Crisis
Nigeria’s former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has finally commented on the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Nation Post reports that Fubara and Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have been at loggerheads since the former assumed office as Rivers governor.
Despite efforts by several political stakeholders, including President Bola Tinubu, the feud between the duo has shown no end in sight.
However, on Monday, Jonathan emphasized the importance of collaboration between Fubara and Wike for the benefit of the state’s residents.
The former president highlighted the difficulties that come with power transitions in the country.
Jonathan made these remarks during a special event hosted by the Rivers State Government to kick off the construction of the Trans-Kalabari Road Project on Monday.
The former President noted that although challenges may arise during national power transitions, they can be effectively addressed.
Jonathan highlighted the issue of power transition between governors, citing the political crisis in Rivers State as an illustration. He urged the current and former governors to work together for the betterment of the state’s residents.
To address the situation in Rivers State, Jonathan stressed the importance of collaboration between the Federal Capital Territory Minister and Governor Sim Fubara.
He emphasized the negative consequences of tension in such a vital region like the heart of the Niger Delta.
He said, “On that note, let me plead because the political tension in the state is becoming too much.
“Transition in Nigeria is becoming a problem. At the center, Presidents have been taking over from Presidents, there are always issues but at least it’s better managed.
“But at the state level, it’s becoming noisy in so many states. And I say that is not the best.
“Outgoing governors and incoming governors must know that they work together for the collective interest of the citizens of the state.
“And that is critical because you must work together. In this case of Rivers State, Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must work together for developing the lands and the people of Rivers State.
“The tension will not help us. Rivers State is very critical in this country. Rivers State is the heart of the Niger Delta.
“If Rivers State is destabilized, the whole Niger Delta will be destabilized. And it will not end within the Niger Delta alone because I’m from this part of the country and I know how the system works.
“And we don’t want any crisis in Rivers State. Leaders must know that nobody takes hundred per cent, you must learn the principle of give and take.
“So, all political actors must work together if you love the Rivers people.”
Jonathan expressed his optimism regarding the impact of the Trans-Kalabari Road inauguration on the economic growth of Rivers State.
He emphasized that the construction of the road would not only benefit security forces in ensuring peace and order but also reduce accidents on waterways.
According to him, the development of major roads in riverine areas is a significant step towards addressing various challenges. Jonathan also praised Fubara for initiating the road project, recognizing its significance in advancing the region’s progress.
“When I was invited to come and flag-off, I said that it’s only a person who has vision and commitment to develop his people that can do this
“So, Your Excellency, let me commend you for your vision and the courage to start the project because it’s not going to be tea party.”
The former President called on the people of Rivers State to support the governor, adding that he has “shown within this short period that he is somebody who is focused and who has the commitment to move Rivers State to a higher level”.
“And we need the maximum cooperation,” he added.
