PORT HARCOURT: Former President Goodluck Jonathan has advised the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to despair or lose courage over the challenges confronting him in Rivers State.
Apparently referring to the intractable feud between the Governor and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Government, Jonathan said the challenges would shape Fubara into future “General” of Rivers politics.
Speaking at a chieftaincy installation ceremony in Etche Local Government Area, he urged the people of Rivers to keep showing support to the embattled Governor, harping on the importance of peace for the state’s development.
The ex – President warned that any destabilisation in the state could unsettle the oil bearing Niger Delta region and the entire country.
“I know you (Gov. Fubara) are passing through challenges, and at occasions like these, I try to keep quiet. I don’t like to say certain things. This is the first time you are holding a top political office. You will face a lot. But remember, nobody becomes a General without fighting wars. Whatever challenges you face now are preparing you to be a General in politics. With your commitment and the support I see from the people of Rivers, God will see you through.
“We want a peaceful Rivers State because it is the centre of the Niger Delta. If we create problems in Rivers State, we create a crisis in the Niger Delta, which is detrimental to our economy. We need a peaceful state, and we want the governor to remain calm and focus on his work,” Jonathan said.
Responding, Governor Fubara thanked the former President for his support during challenging times, stating, “He has stood by me through this difficult period of our administration.”
