There must be collaboration between you and Wike for the benefit of Rivers people — Former President tells Gov Fubara
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan emphasised the importance of collaboration between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for the benefit of the state’s populace.
Speaking as the special guest of honor at an event organized by the Rivers State Government to inaugurate the Trans-Kalabari Road Project on Monday, Jonathan expressed concerns regarding the challenges associated with power transitions in the country.
While acknowledging the generally smoother transitions at the national level, he highlighted the complexities of transitioning power between governors.
Using the political crisis in Rivers State as a case in point, Jonathan urged both current and former governors to work together for the welfare of the state’s residents.
He stressed the importance of cooperation between Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara, emphasizing the adverse effects of tension in such a crucial region as the heart of the Niger Delta.
Jonathan said: “On that note let me plead, because the political tension in the state is becoming too much.
“Transition in Nigeria is becoming a problem. At the center, Presidents have been taking over from Presidents, there are always issues but at least it’s better managed.
“But at the state level, it’s becoming noisy in so many states. And I say that is not the best.
“Outgoing governors and incoming governors must know that they work together for the collective interest of the citizens of the state.
“And that is critical because you must work together. In this case of Rivers State, Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must work together for developing the lands and the people of Rivers State.
“If Rivers State is destabilized, the whole Niger Delta will be destabilized. And it will not end within the Niger Delta alone because I’m from this part of the country and I know how the system works.
“And we don’t want any crisis in Rivers State. Leaders must know that nobody takes hundred per cent, you must learn the principle of give and take.
“So, all political actors must work together if you love the Rivers people.”
Addressing the inauguration of the Trans-Kalabari Road, Jonathan highlighted its potential to bolster the economic growth of Rivers State.
He emphasised that the road’s construction would support security forces in upholding order and safety within the state while also reducing accidents on waterways, asserting, that “When you establish major roads across riverine areas, you address multiple challenges.”
Jonathan praised Fubara for initiating the road project, recognizing its significance for the region’s progress.
He said: “When I was invited to come and flag-off, I said that it’s only a person who has vision and commitment to develop his people that can do this
“So, Your Excellency, let me commend you for your vision and the courage to start the project because it’s not going to be tea party.”
The former President urged the people of the State to support the governor, adding that he has “shown within this short period that he is somebody who is focused and who has the commitment to move Rivers State to a higher level. And we need the maximum cooperation,”he added.
