Fubara honours Wike, calls him political mentor

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has dedicated his Man of the Year award to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, acknowledging him as the political figure who discovered and supported his rise.

Fubara made the remarks on Friday while receiving the honour at the New Telegraph Award and Dinner Night in Lagos, where he reflected on leadership, political pressures and the need for compromise to maintain peace in the state.

The governor said his decision to adopt what critics call “weakness” was a deliberate strategy to ensure stability and survival amid months of political tension.

“Some persons describe it as weakness, others say it is being strong, but I chose to be weak because I want peace. Weak because we need to survive and protect what is important to our state and nation,” he said, adding that “weakness is a virtue” when it promotes harmony.

He thanked residents of Rivers State for their patience and maturity throughout the prolonged political crisis, noting that their support had helped sustain his administration.

In a symbolic gesture, Fubara dedicated the award to Wike, his predecessor, saying the minister played a key role in his emergence as governor.

“I dedicate this award to somebody who discovered me. He discovered me, and that discovery gave me this platform,” he said.

His comments come amid signs of easing tensions between both leaders following mediation by Bola Tinubu. The rift between Wike and Fubara, which began shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023, had sparked divisions within the state legislature, impeachment threats and months of political uncertainty.

Recent developments, including reconciliation efforts and fresh nominations to the state cabinet, suggest moves toward restoring stability in the state’s governance.