“Rivers is not a private estate” – Odili commends Fubara for resisting Wike’s dominance

Former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, has commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his boldness in resisting the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike’s alleged attempt to control Rivers State as a private estate.

Speaking at a Christmas night of songs organized in honour of Fubara and his family, Odili lauded the governor’s fortitude in confronting what he described as an unnecessary but fierce political battle waged by Wike.

According to him, Fubara’s actions have steadied governance and uplifted the spirits of civil servants and residents across the state.

“Governor Fubara demonstrated exceptional courage to emancipate Rivers people and prevent the state from being captured as a private estate. His leadership has restored the joy and progress we once enjoyed until I left office in 2007,” Odili stated.

Odili emphasized the significance of crisis as a sometimes necessary enabler in governance and applauded Fubara for transforming the conflict into an opportunity to reaffirm the state’s independence and unity.

In response, Governor Fubara attributed his triumph over the political crisis to God and the overwhelming support of true Rivers people.

“God is the ultimate liberator. The strength and encouragement from Rivers people have given me the resolve to continue standing firm for the state,” he said.

Fubara assured citizens that his administration would continue prioritising progress and prosperity for Rivers State.

“As we look forward to 2025, I’m determined to make every year better than the last,” he pledged.

The night also featured speeches from notable leaders, including the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo, who recounted the legislature’s challenges during the crisis, and Chief Judge Justice Simeon Amadi, who praised Fubara’s resilience.