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Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers State, has praised Peter Odili, the former governor, as the “beginning and end of politics” in the state. Fubara made this statement on Wednesday evening during a New Year’s banquet in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Fubara emphasized that his “detractors” lack a prominent figure in Rivers politics, asserting that Odili is the ultimate political figure in the state. This comment came shortly after an exchange between Odili and Nyesom Wike, the current minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Odili had earlier criticized Fubara for preventing Wike from controlling the state as his “private estate,” a remark that led Wike to label the former governor as a “laughing stock.”
The tension between Wike and his successor, Fubara, has persisted for months, with disputes over various issues related to Rivers State.
In his speech, Fubara acknowledged the significant contributions of political figures like Odili, who have played key roles in the state’s development. He expressed confidence in Odili’s leadership, saying, “If Dr. Odili is sitting with us, who do they (opposition) have on their side? Dr. Odili is the right face and the right image of our state.”
Fubara also stressed that no force would derail the pursuit of good governance in Rivers. He reassured the public, saying, “We are not bothered by what they (opposition) will bring. God will always find a way to protect us. They will come, but we are equal to the task.”
The governor expressed his gratitude to leaders such as Odili, Sir Celestine Omehia, Senator John Azuta Mbata, Sir Austin Opara, Prince Uche Secondus, and Dr. Abiye Sekibo for their continued support.
Addressing the issue of education, Fubara acknowledged the state’s current challenges in the sector, noting that primary schools in Rivers are underperforming. He vowed to prioritize education during his administration, believing it to be a critical tool in preventing crime and promoting positive youth development.
