In the midst of the rekindled conflict between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and his estranged political son, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, some prominent figures in the state have supported the governor.
Former Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman Uche Secondus, former House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Austin Opara, former Transportation Minister Abiye Sekibo, and former Rivers State Governor Celestine Omehia are among those supporting Fubara.
Speaking on Thursday at the 2026 New Year State Banquet at Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara revealed their support.
The governor claimed that the political leaders’ attendance at the event was an obvious indication of their support.
He thanked the political personalities’ attendance at the event and emphasized that their choices had refuted accusations and threats that he was siding with individuals who were working against the President’s interests.
“The distinguished leaders who joined us today demonstrate their unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu and this administration,” Fubara stated.
Only those who lacked comprehension would turn to “barking” when they were unable to make sense of what was happening, Fubara continued.
“There is no way people will be talking about us when we leave office,” declared the governor. In reality, volumes about our government, our struggles, and our survival will be written.
“Those who put their faith in God can never be ashamed; the truth is obvious and the key to our survival is just one thing.” Additionally, the goal of governance for this beloved State will be accomplished since they are unable to humiliate us.
“This evening, I am pleased to see such illustrious figures from our beloved state seated at the high table. We are merely informing the world that these esteemed individuals, such as Prince Uche Secondus, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Sir Celestine Omehia, and Alabo Abiye Sekibo, have joined us at this New Year’s banquet to demonstrate your support for Sir Siminalayi Fubara’s administration.
“You are boldly sitting with us so that people will see that you are standing with Fubara and are not involved in corner, corner business. Additionally, you support Mr. President since you are standing with Fubara.
You have no idea what you have done, so I would want to thank you this evening. Because of your political activities—and not only because of politics, but also because of your names—we were being blackmailed in multiple locations.
However, I am glad that you informed me this evening that you would join us for a seat so that everyone would know that you are here.
“That you are completely unrelated to any other group that opposes Mr. President. Your decision to stand with us is to defend Rivers State, not because of me.
“Let’s not allow whatever is going on to deceive us. According to one of Caeser’s comments, a dog will only bark when it doesn’t understand.
Therefore, we don’t bark because we comprehend. We are prepared for the necessary items to ensure a smooth voyage, and we are aware of our destination.
As we celebrate the year of our Lord, a year of peace, and a year that will bring about total emancipation, let me express my gratitude to everyone for coming to this great evening and making time to sit with us.
“A year that, looking back, we will say to God, “Yes, what happened is a result of what you have and have planned for us in the years to come.”
“I want to reassure you that governance will remain strong.” We will keep doing the things we have set out to do for our state.
“We’ll make sure that by the time we’re done, everyone who supported us will be honored, proud, and able to walk down Port Harcourt’s streets knowing that you made the right choice at that moment.”
The Wike-Fubara Rift Widened
Months after Bola Tinubu mediated a reconciliation between Wike and Fubara, their relationship declined once more.
The outgoing governor has recently accused his successor of breaking the conditions of the peace accord that was negotiated through presidential intervention.
Wike has consistently maintained that “agreement is agreement,” a position that is commonly seen as an attempt to prevent Fubara from running for reelection before subsequent elections.
