Fubara Credits Wike for Governorship at Award Ceremony

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has openly credited the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his emergence as governor. Despite their well-documented rift, Fubara expressed deep gratitude while receiving the New Telegraph “Man of the Year” award on Friday.

The Governor used the occasion to clarify that his political career was made possible by Wike’s mentorship. He noted that, “Without him, I wouldn’t be standing here as governor. He discovered me and it’s a discovery that gave me this loudness.”

Fubara insisted that he was not bothered by how the public might interpret his show of appreciation. He emphasized that Wike’s initial “discovery” of his potential was the foundation for his current position of leadership.

In addition to honoring his predecessor, the Governor dedicated the award to the people of Rivers State. He praised their maturity and quiet support for helping the state remain stable despite recent political challenges.

The statement has sparked conversation across the state given the intense friction between both leaders over the past year. Fubara’s comments appear to be a deliberate attempt to acknowledge historical facts regardless of current grievances.

The Governor concluded by thanking everyone who contributed to his journey, reaffirming his commitment to the state’s progress. He maintained that recognizing Wike’s influence was simply a matter of giving credit where it was due.