Goodluck Jonathan, former president, has advised Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, to stay committed to the development of the state despite opposition.
Speaking at the first Etche festival of food, art and culture exhibition held at Nihi community in Etche LGA area of the state, on Sunday, Jonathan said the opposition attacks against Fubara are only preparing him to become a better leader.
Fubara and Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), have been at loggerheads over control of the political structure of the state.
The feud between the duo has sparked a political crisis in the state and led to the polarisation of the Rivers house of assembly.
“I know you (Governor 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 the 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,” he said.
“So, whatever challenges you are meeting now are 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.”
Jonathan said Rivers state plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, adding that if the state is not peaceful, the Niger Delta region would be affected.
“We want a peaceful Rivers 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 a crisis in the Niger Delta, which is not good for our economy as a nation,” Jonathan said.
“We want a peaceful Rivers state. We want the governor of Rivers state 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.”
On his part, Fubara said Jonathan has been there for him throughout the most difficult period of his administration
“Coming here to celebrate with the Etche people is a sign of humility. So, I want to thank you for coming and being with us today,” Fubara said.
“When I was told that our Daddy (Dr Jonathan) would be coming here, I had to cancel all other programmes that I had to be here to receive him and to honour him.
“He has stood with me in this most difficult period of our administration. So, the little I can do is to come to wait for him, to receive him, and to share in this honour.