Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has refuted claims of a political crisis in the state, asserting that his administration remains focused on delivering good governance to the people. Speaking during a meeting with members of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara emphasized his commitment to serving the needs of the Rivers people.
Addressing the challenges posed by the perceived political turmoil, Governor Fubara drew inspiration from the pressure, stating that it has strengthened his resolve to provide effective leadership. He likened the situation to a scene from the movie “Devil’s Advocate,” where pressure either causes people to falter or become more determined to succeed. Governor Fubara affirmed that his administration has chosen the latter path, remaining focused on improving the lives of the state’s residents.
“As far as we are concerned, there are no political issues. I had seen a movie many years ago, entitled, ‘Devil’s Advocate.’ I believe some of you must have seen that movie too,” he stated.
“One of the starring characters: Al Pacino said, that pressure makes some people retreat or fail, and to others, it makes them become focused on succeeding. We have chosen to be focused under this pressure.
He reiterated the importance of governance being centered on the people’s welfare, highlighting his administration’s efforts to address the core needs of the populace. Governor Fubara credited the positive impact on people’s lives to the unwavering dedication of his government.
The political landscape in Rivers State has been fraught with tension, particularly stemming from strained relations between Governor Fubara and his former political mentor and ex-governor, Nyesom Wike. Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), currently serves as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister under President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“That is why we are moving ahead. That is why we are making a positive impact on the lives of our people. Governance is about the people. It is not about self.
“Governance is about touching the core needs of those people we are leading, and by the special grace of God, we are doing it.”
Last year, the state witnessed a significant upheaval when 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly defected from the PDP to the APC, led by the Speaker, who remains loyal to Wike. The lawmakers accused Governor Fubara of withholding funds from them, leading to tensions between the legislative and executive arms of the state government. Attempts to impeach Governor Fubara were made, exacerbating the political crisis until President Bola Tinubu intervened, inviting the feuding parties to Abuja, resulting in an eight-point resolution.
