Former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili has commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for thwarting an individual’s attempt to dominate the state as a personal domain,Daily Trust reports.
Speaking during a Christmas Ballad hosted at his residence in Port Harcourt, Odili praised Fubara for liberating the people of Rivers State. The event, which featured musical performances and other activities, was organized by the Odili family to honor the governor and his leadership qualities.
Odili highlighted the governor’s resilience in facing political challenges, referencing the fierce battle against Fubara that began on October 25, 2023. In a statement issued on Saturday by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Odili was quoted as saying:
“It has been over 12 months since the unnecessary and fierce existential fight for the soul of Rivers State was waged against Governor Fubara. With unwavering determination, Governor Fubara confronted the challenge, halted the attempt by one man to turn the state into a private estate, freed the people, stabilized governance, and brought back the happiness of civil servants and Rivers residents, reminiscent of my tenure before 2007.”
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Although Odili did not name anyone explicitly, it was widely interpreted as a reference to Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and a former governor of Rivers State. While Wike had played a role in Fubara’s emergence, their relationship soured within three months of Fubara assuming office. Wike later expressed regret for backing Fubara and vowed to unseat him in 2027.
Justice Mary Odili also spoke at the event, presenting gifts to Governor Fubara, his wife, Lady Valerie, and their children. She described Fubara as a divine gift chosen by God to emancipate the people of Rivers State.
In his response, Governor Fubara reflected on the political antagonism he had faced, stating that it had given him a new perspective on leadership. He credited the people of Rivers State for their unwavering support, which he said strengthened him during the crisis.
“My strength comes from all of you. Your encouragement, your efforts, and your calls have made it possible for me to stand firm. But above all, we recognize that the ultimate liberator and game-changer is God Almighty. With Him on our side, victory is certain,” Fubara declared.
