By Abiola Olawale
In a move that has captured the attention of political observers across Nigeria, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has publicly dedicated an excellence award to his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Despite recent headlines of a rift between the two leaders, Fubara utilized the spotlight to acknowledge Wike’s pivotal role in his political trajectory, stating emphatically that the Minister “discovered” his potential.
The dedication occurred during a ceremony honoring the Governor for his strides in infrastructure development and fiscal discipline within his first year in office.
Speaking while receiving his award at the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night in Lagos on Friday, Fubara delivered an emotional reflection on leadership, political pressures, and reconciliation.
“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know that for believing in me, you have a share of special pain,” the governor said.
Addressing the prolonged political tensions that have defined Rivers State’s governance landscape, Fubara stated that his approach had often been misunderstood.
“Some of these pains, some people describe them as weakness, while others say they are strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons. 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 said.
In a remark likely to stir political conversations, the governor added, “Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”
Fubara expressed gratitude to his family and the people of Rivers State for what he described as their patience and maturity amid months of political uncertainty.
“To the wonderful people of Rivers State that have shown support, shown quietness, shown maturity that has brought us this far,” he said.
He then made a direct and symbolic dedication of the award to Wike, his predecessor and political benefactor.
“I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it, I also dedicate this award to somebody who also discovered me, not minding the situation, the Honourable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike.
“He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness,” Fubara stated.
The governor’s comments come against the backdrop of recent signs of easing tensions between the two leaders following mediation by President Bola Tinubu.
The New Diplomat had earlier reported that the rivalry between Wike and Fubara showed indications of softening after what was described as a “final” intervention by the President at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Wike, speaking after inspecting projects in Abuja, had expressed optimism about the reconciliation process, saying, “I believe, by the grace of God, this will be the last time.
“All I can tell you is that Mr. President has been very kind to the people of the state. If there seems to be a problem between the legislature and the governor, as a father, he really has to intervene.”
