KEY POINTS
- Inward tranquility has seen Fubara proclaim that he is pleased even without the prospect of office.
- President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers in March 2025.
- The rivalry between Fubara and the former governor, Wike, has not eased; the competitive politics is still very real.
In an unexpected break from his earlier silence, Rivers State suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara has also chimed in the political strife claiming that he does not need to.
Fubara said, “The spirit has left me a long time ago”
While attending a service of songs in honor of late elder statesman Edwin Clark in Port Harcourt on Sunday, Fubara threatened his downfall, saying looking at me this day now, I look so much better now? Are you thinking that I care about it? I’ve not felt connected to that place for a very long time.
On twitter, his supporters applauded Fubara’s measured response as his words started to viralize in published videos. Addressing the subject, he opined “Avoid some fights,” and emphatically underscored that focus must be maintained.
Background: Rivers political crisis and federal takeover
Rivers State has been in a scramble for power between Fubara and his political benefactor turned foe, Nyesom Wike who is now the Minister of federal capital territory. After the December 2023 peace agreement by President Bola Tinubu, continued conflicts prevailed.
Tinubu had declared Rivers a state of emergency on March 18, 2025 after toppling Fubara, Deputy Governor, Ngozi Odu, and all the law makers from Rivers. President Tinubu charged Retired Naval Chief Ibok-Ete Ibas with the responsibility of running the state as administrator hence federal control over Rivers State.
The Nigerian response was varied,some in denial of it being unconstitutional, while others argued it was necessary in restoring order.
Supporters react online
After making his remarks concerning the Rivers political crisis, Fubara’s supporters began posting messages and comments online. One user posted: Gov Sim Fubara, who is known for strong principles. He proved on a third occasion he did not pander to Wike! No one seeing this man cannot but admire him. God bless him!
It is Fubara’s exemplary bearing and the manner in which he chose to stay quiet as opposed to confronting despite the circumstances which has seen him command lots of respect for his dignified response.
