Odili Lauds Fubara for Defeating Wike’s Attempt to Control Rivers State
Dr. Peter Odili, former governor of Rivers State and former presidential aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for standing firm against the political crisis that threatened to turn the state into a private estate for former governor Nyesom Wike.
Speaking at a Christmas ballad he hosted in honor of Governor Fubara and his family, Odili praised Fubara’s resilience and leadership in navigating the political turmoil that erupted over the governance of Rivers State. The event, which took place in the Odili family’s home, featured a variety of songs and activities, celebrating the governor’s fortitude.
Dr. Odili remarked that the ongoing political struggle, which began in October 2023, was an unnecessary and fierce battle for the soul of Rivers State. Despite the odds, Governor Fubara confronted these challenges with unwavering resolve, preventing Wike from consolidating power in the state. Odili described Fubara’s actions as an emancipation for the people of Rivers, steadying governance and ensuring the happiness of civil servants and the general populace.
“It is now over 12 months since the existential fight began, and with assuring fortitude, Governor Fubara confronted the challenge and stopped the quest by one man to capture the state as a private estate,” Odili declared. “He has steadied governance and made civil servants and Rivers people happier, just as it was before I left office in 2007.”
Governor Fubara Responds:
In his response, Governor Fubara acknowledged the support of Rivers people and credited God for the ultimate triumph over the political challenges. Reflecting on the political crisis, Fubara expressed that the experience reshaped his perspective on leadership. He emphasized that his strength was drawn not just from within, but from the encouragement and support of the true Rivers people.
“It is not me being strong. My strength is drawn from everyone of you who is here. You gave me the encouragement; you do the work for me; you make the calls for me. So, why wouldn’t I stand up for you?” Fubara remarked, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from the people of Rivers State. He further stated that despite the difficulties, he saw the crisis as a necessary enabler for effective governance.
“The ultimate liberator, and the ultimate fighter still remains God Almighty,” he concluded, confident that with God on their side, victory was assured. He assured the people that with their continued support, 2025 would bring even more progress and prosperity to the state.
Fubara also expressed his commitment to running a government that uplifts the image of the state and avoids tyranny. He noted the importance of ensuring that governance remains focused on progress, regardless of who takes over in the future.
“We will not be tyrants. We will remember that what we are doing here today is a shift job, and one day, our time will be up. When the other person comes, they will continue with the steam for progress in the state,” he said.
Support from Rivers Leaders:
Other dignitaries present at the event also expressed their support for Governor Fubara. Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, recalled how the political crisis nearly overwhelmed them but acknowledged that the Governor’s encouragement and leadership helped them stand firm for the truth.
Justice Simeon Amadi, Chief Judge of Rivers State, shared his surprise at both his continued tenure as Chief Judge and Fubara’s successful handling of the crisis. He praised the Governor for turning the crisis into a liberation fight for the state.
Dr. Abiye Sekibo, former Minister of Transport, also lauded Governor Fubara, saying that he had blended the leadership style of Dr. Odili with his own, steering Rivers State on a course of governance that made the people proud.
In a vote of thanks, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd), Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), expressed gratitude to Dr. Peter Odili for organizing the family reunion and commended Governor Fubara for his humility and leadership.
This celebration of Governor Fubara’s leadership and resilience underscored the strong political unity and resolve of Rivers State’s leaders in the face of political adversity, signaling a brighter future ahead for the people of the state.
