- Siminalayi Fubara said he deliberately embraced what critics called “weakness” as a strategy for peace and political survival amid tensions in Rivers State
- Speaking at the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night in Lagos, he dedicated his Man of the Year honour to Nyesom Wike, crediting him with discovering and supporting his political rise
- The remarks followed reconciliation efforts led by Bola Tinubu after months of crisis marked by Assembly divisions and impeachment threats
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has said his decision to embrace what critics term “weakness” was a deliberate strategy for peace and political survival, as he dedicated his Man of the Year award to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Fubara made the remarks on Friday night while receiving the honour at the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night in Lagos. In an emotional speech, he reflected on the prolonged political tensions that have shaped governance in Rivers State since he assumed office in May 2023.
“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know for believing in me, you have a share of special pain,” the governor said.
Addressing criticisms of his leadership style amid the rift with his predecessor, Fubara said his restraint had often been misinterpreted.
“Some of these pains, some persons describe them as weakness, while others say it as being strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak, because I want peace. Weak, because we need to survive. Weak, because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” he stated, adding that “weakness is a virtue” when applied at the right time.
In a move likely to spark fresh political debate, the governor dedicated the award to Wike, crediting him with discovering and supporting his political rise. “He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness,” Fubara said.
The remarks come amid signs of reconciliation between the two leaders following mediation by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Wike has also expressed optimism that the intervention would mark a turning point in the crisis.
The feud between the governor and his predecessor had led to divisions within the state House of Assembly, impeachment threats and months of political uncertainty. However, recent developments, including renewed legislative engagement and reported commissioner nominations, suggest efforts towards stabilisation and restored cooperation within the state’s political structure.