Former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday, while visiting the state did not hold back from taunting his successor and current political rival, Siminalayi Fubara over his recent setbacks in the State. He (Wike) outrightly claimed that Fubara would undoubtedly fail as governor, mocking him over recent political setbacks.
Supreme Court Ruling and Fubara’s Political Setback
Wike pointed to the recent Supreme Court judgment that reinstated the Martin Amaewhule-led 27 lawmakers, mandating Fubara to re-present the state budget to the complete House of Assembly. He also referenced the nullification of the local government election, suggesting that these developments signified Fubara’s declining political influence.
“You Surrounded Yourself with the Wrong People”
Wike accused Fubara of receiving poor advice from individuals who had once aspired to govern the state. According to Wike, he had denied them the opportunity, choosing Fubara instead. He claimed these individuals were now misleading the governor, further contributing to his struggles.
“You [Fubara] surrounded yourself with people who wanted to be governor, whom I said, ‘No, these people don’t mean well for Rivers State,’” Wike asserted.
“They are the ones surrounding you, giving you advice. Do you think you will succeed?
“They will give bad advice, and look at what bad advice is doing to you. You are already down 2-0, and there’s more to come.”
Political Tensions Escalate in Rivers State
Wike’s remarks come at a time when Governor Fubara is facing increased pressure from powerful stakeholders in Rivers State. The ongoing rift between the former governor and his successor has reached a boiling point, seemingly tipping in Wike’s favor but to the detriment of governance and stability in the state.
Personal Vendettas Overshadow Governance
Wike’s boastful remarks, however, expose a deeper issue within Nigerian politics—where personal power struggles often take precedence over the well-being of citizens. His words reflect not just a political rivalry but an unsettling reality: political leaders are willing to go to extreme lengths to assert dominance, regardless of the cost to the people they are meant to serve.
