Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed his readiness to step down from his position in the interest of peace and stability in the state.
In an interview with African Independent Television (AIT), Governor Fubara acknowledged the political tensions that have arisen between him and former governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The ongoing power struggle in Rivers State, which has escalated over the past two months, reached a critical juncture, causing apprehension and uncertainty until the intervention of President Bola Tinubu. Allegations surfaced regarding demands for a share of the state’s revenue by Wike, which he vehemently denied.
Additionally, attempts were made by the State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Fubara, resulting in the bombing of the Assembly complex, with Wike accusing Fubara of orchestrating the attack.
Further complicating matters, twenty-seven members of the State House of Assembly loyal to Wike defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a bid to oust the governor. Tinubu intervened to broker peace between Wike and Fubara, although many perceived this as placing Fubara in a disadvantageous position.
However, Governor Fubara now emphasizes that he is willing to make any necessary sacrifices for the success of the administration, prioritizing the welfare of the people of Rivers State above personal ambitions. He highlighted his genuine concern for the well-being of the state’s residents, emphasizing that his actions are driven by a sincere commitment to their interests.
Governor Fubara’s stance reflects his willingness to prioritize peace and stability over personal political ambitions. He acknowledges the maturity required to exercise restraint and avoid exacerbating crises, even when vested with significant authority. Ultimately, his unwavering dedication to the welfare of Rivers State remains his guiding principle, regardless of the sacrifices he may need to make.
Fubara stated: “No sacrifice would be too big for me to pay for the success of this administration. And the reason is simple: it’s not political love. It’s not because I want to gain any favour from anybody, my interest and love for our dear state is genuine. I am not trying to say I want to be one man that will be there to decide the fate of all. No. But let Rivers State remain.”
He went on to state, “My burden at that time was not the issue of all the drama, it is the issue of Rivers people who have made sacrifice, who are seeing opportunity, and it looks as if their hope has been dashed. They were the one I was worried about; what would be their fate, that was my trouble, it was not about me.”
Pointing out that if, “leaving this position is what I need or what is needed to bring more peace to the State, I can even tell you to come and take it. It’s not about me. People should know although definitely I am here, I will go but Rivers State will remain.
Fubara pointed out that a governor, there are things he could do and there would be total crisis, “but the ability to restrain in the face of crisis,” he pointed out. “Even when you have the power to do things is maturity.”