By John Umeh
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly acknowledged the role his predecessor played in shaping his political journey, dedicating his “Man of the Year” award to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking at the New Telegraph Award and Dinner Night in Lagos on Friday, the governor delivered a reflective and emotional speech, addressing months of political turbulence and his controversial leadership style.
Choosing Peace Over Power
Fubara said his decision to adopt what critics have labeled as “weakness” was deliberate and strategic.
According to him, restraint was not a sign of surrender but a conscious move aimed at preserving peace, protecting democratic institutions, and ensuring political stability in Rivers State.
“Some call it weakness; others see it as strength,” he explained. “But for me, it was necessary. I chose calmness because peace is more important than pride. Sometimes survival requires humility.”
He went further to suggest that patience, though often misunderstood, ultimately produces results. In his words, “What looks like weakness today may prove to be wisdom tomorrow.”
Gratitude Amid Turbulence
The governor expressed appreciation to his family and the people of Rivers State, commending their restraint and maturity throughout months of political tension that unsettled the state’s governance.
The crisis, which began shortly after he assumed office in May 2023, created deep cracks within the Rivers State House of Assembly, sparked impeachment threats, and generated nationwide political anxiety.
Yet, according to Fubara, the calm response of citizens helped prevent further escalation.
“He Discovered Me”
In what many observers consider a significant political statement, Fubara openly credited Wike for his emergence on the state’s political stage.
“I dedicate this recognition to the man who discovered me,” he declared. “Regardless of how people choose to interpret it, I remain grateful.”
The remark signals a notable shift in tone between both leaders, whose relationship had deteriorated sharply in recent months.
Tinubu’s Mediation and Signs of Reconciliation
The reconciliation effort reportedly gained momentum following intervention by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Wike had earlier expressed optimism about the peace process, describing the President’s involvement as fatherly and reassuring. According to him, the President stepped in to restore order between the executive and legislative arms in Rivers State.
There have also been practical signs of détente. Fubara recently acknowledged Wike’s role in initiating major infrastructure projects, including the Port Harcourt Ring Road, referring to the minister respectfully as “My Oga.”
Additionally, reports indicate that the governor has submitted a fresh list of commissioner nominees to the State Assembly — a move widely interpreted as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts.
A Political Reset?
The public dedication of the award may represent more than gratitude; it could signal a calculated reset in Rivers politics.
For months, the power struggle between the two men dominated national discourse. Now, their renewed civility suggests a possible turning point.
Whether this truce holds or evolves into a full political realignment remains to be seen. But for now, Governor Fubara has made one thing clear: the man many believed he had politically broken away from still occupies a significant place in his story.
And in politics, such acknowledgments rarely happen without purpose.
