Rivers crisis grooming Fubara into a political general – Jonathan declares

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed his firm belief that political crisis rocking Rivers State with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor of the State, Nyesom flexing muscle is a necessary challenge that would shape and groom Governor Fubara into a political general in future.

CAPITAL POST report that Governor Fubara and his ex-political godfather, Nyesom Wike have been having running battle not quite long he took over the mantle of leadership as the executive governor of Rivers State which snowballed into making 27 members of the House of Assembly defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP which they were elected to All Progressives Congress, APC.

The former President who hardly speak on political conundrum in Rivers broke silence on Sunday and urged Governor Fubara not to be perturbed over crisis hitting the State, adding that he should rather be focused on development and be committed to his duties.

He said, “I know you (Gov 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 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.

“So, whatever challenges you are meeting now is 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.”

The former president also pleaded with Rivers people to collectively ensure that they continue to support Fubara while making sure that the state remains peaceful in order to engender enduring development.

His words: “We want a peaceful Rivers State, 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 crisis in the Niger Delta, which is not good for our economy as a nation.

“We want a peaceful Rivers State. We want the Governor of Rivers State to be allowed 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.”

Jonathan also commended the traditional ruler of Etche, Eze Ken O. Nwala, for the success he has achieved in 10 years on the throne. He also praised the commitment of Etche people to farming, which has earned the place a reputation as the food basket of the state.

Fubara, who was conferred with a traditional title alongside Jonathan, expressed delight over the recognition and the chieftaincy title. He assured the people that his administration would continue to provide projects and social services that would improve their standard of living.

The governor urged the people to expect more government attention because of their support, and assured them that he would not disappoint them. He also thanked Jonathan for gracing the occasion, saying that his presence was a sign of humility.