Why I chose weakness in my battle against Wike – Gov. Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has explained that his decision to adopt what some critics describe as “weakness” in the political confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was driven by the need to preserve peace, ensure survival, and protect broader national interests.

Fubara spoke on Friday in Lagos while receiving a Man of the Year award at the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night, where he offered an emotional reflection on leadership pressures, political tensions, and reconciliation in Rivers State.

“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know for believing in me, you have a share of special pain,” the governor said.

Addressing the prolonged political strain that has shaped governance in the state, Fubara said his approach had often been misunderstood.

“Some of these pains, some persons describe them as weakness, while others say it as being strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak, because I want peace.

“Weak, because we need to survive. Weak, because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” he said.

In a remark that may further shape political discourse, the governor added, “Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”

Fubara thanked his family and the people of Rivers State for what he described as their patience and maturity during months of uncertainty.

“To the wonderful people of Rivers State that have shown support, shown quietness, shown maturity that has brought us this far,” he said.

The governor also dedicated the award to Wike, his predecessor and political benefactor.

“I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it, I also dedicate this award to somebody who also discovered me, not minding the situation, the Honourable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike.

“He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness,” Fubara stated.

His remarks come amid recent signs of easing tensions between the two leaders following mediation efforts led by President Bola Tinubu.

The rivalry between Wike and Fubara, which began shortly after the governor assumed office in May 2023, had contributed to divisions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, impeachment threats, and prolonged governance uncertainty.

However, recent developments indicate possible stabilisation, including reconciliation moves and renewed engagement between political actors in the state.

Wike had earlier expressed optimism about the peace process after inspecting projects in Abuja, saying, “I believe, by the grace of God, this will be the last time.

“All I can tell you is that Mr President has been very kind to the people of the state. If there seems to be a problem between the legislature and the governor, as a father, he really has to intervene.”

Fubara had also publicly acknowledged Wike’s influence during the inspection of the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, where he described the minister as “My Oga” and credited him with conceiving the initiative.

The latest comments from the governor suggest a continuing effort to consolidate reconciliation and restore political stability in Rivers State after months of tension.