Former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, has praised the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for his resilience in preventing what he described as an attempt by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to turn Rivers State into a private estate. Odili made the remarks during a Christmas ballad he organized in honor of Governor Fubara and his family.
According to Odili, Governor Fubara exhibited remarkable fortitude in confronting and overcoming a fierce political battle initiated in October 2023. This struggle, he claimed, was aimed at wresting control of the state for personal interests.
“Governor Fubara emancipated Rivers people, steadied governance, and restored the happiness of civil servants and citizens, reminiscent of my time in office,” Odili stated.
In response, Governor Fubara credited God and the unwavering support of Rivers citizens for the triumph over the crisis. He said the political turmoil had provided him with a fresh perspective on leadership, emphasizing his commitment to governance centered on the collective good.
“My strength comes from the people of Rivers State. Their support has been my motivation, and I remain committed to serving them with humility and integrity,” Fubara said.
He also assured that his administration would continue to prioritize the prosperity of Rivers State, promising that 2025 would bring even greater progress and unity.
Other notable figures in Rivers State echoed Odili’s sentiments. Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, recalled how Governor Fubara’s encouragement helped him and others stand firm during the crisis.
The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, praised Fubara’s leadership, noting that he had defied expectations by maintaining stability and governance amid political turmoil.
Former Transport Minister Dr. Abiye Sekibo highlighted Fubara’s ability to blend Dr. Odili’s leadership traits with his own, steering the state toward progress and making its citizens proud.
The event, hosted by the Odili family, was described as a symbolic gathering of Rivers State’s political and social leaders, celebrating unity and resilience. Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd.), Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, lauded Governor Fubara and his family for their humility and dedication to the state.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to ethical governance, stressing that his administration’s legacy would pave the way for continued progress in Rivers State. “We will not be tyrants,” he assured.
