Former President Goodluck Jonathan has stated that the current crisis in Rivers State will ultimately shape Governor Siminalayi Fubara into a political general.
Jonathan made this assertion at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition held in Etche Local Government Area of the state.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the Rivers governor is having a running political battle with his predecessor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
At the event on Sunday, Jonathan said that antagonism is a common experience that leaders face and that the political war staged against Fubara would eventually make him emerge as a political general. He urged Fubara not to be perturbed over the political antagonism against his administration, but to remain dedicated to the obligations of governance without being distracted.
He said, “I know you (Gov Fubara) are passing through challenges, and on occasions like these, I try to keep quiet. I don’t like to say certain things.
“But this is first time you are holding top political office. You will pass through a lot. And, just know that nobody becomes a General without fighting wars.
“So, whatever challenges you are meeting now is baking you to be a General in politics. And with your total commitment and with the support I have seen from the people of Rivers State, God will surely see you through.”
The former president also pleaded with Rivers people to collectively ensure that they continue to support Fubara while making sure that the state remains peaceful in order to engender enduring development.
His words: “We want a peaceful Rivers State, because Rivers State is the centre of the Niger Delta. And I always make it very clear: if we create serious perturbation in Rivers State, we are creating crisis in the Niger Delta, which is not good for our economy as a nation.
“We want a peaceful Rivers State. We want the Governor of Rivers State to be allowed to remain calm and do his work. After he finishes serving, another person will take over.
“In political office, we have tenures. And so, we don’t need to kill ourselves over any political office. Allow those who are there to do their work, and after that, anything can happen.”
Jonathan also commended the traditional ruler of Etche, Eze Ken O. Nwala, for the success he has achieved in 10 years on the throne. He also praised the commitment of Etche people to farming, which has earned the place a reputation as the food basket of the state.
Fubara, who was conferred with a traditional title alongside Jonathan, expressed delight over the recognition and the chieftaincy title. He assured the people that his administration would continue to provide projects and social services that would improve their standard of living.
The governor urged the people to expect more government attention because of their support, and assured them that he would not disappoint them. He also thanked Jonathan for gracing the occasion, saying that his presence was a sign of humility.