Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday publicly acknowledged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as the figure who brought him into political limelight, dedicating his Man of the Year award to him.
The governor spoke in Lagos at the New Telegraph Award and Dinner Night, where he reflected on the leadership challenges he has faced and his approach to managing the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State.
Fubara said his decision to remain calm in the face of mounting criticism was intentional, explaining that what some perceived as weakness was a conscious effort to maintain peace and ensure stability.
He noted that certain sacrifices were necessary to preserve unity and protect broader interests beyond personal ambition.
The governor commended his family and the people of Rivers State for their patience and restraint during months of political uncertainty that strained governance in the state.
In what observers described as a significant political gesture, Fubara dedicated the award to Wike, his predecessor, saying the minister’s support paved the way for his emergence.
He maintained that Wike’s role in identifying and supporting him was instrumental in shaping his political journey and public visibility.
His comments come amid indications of easing tensions between the two leaders following intervention by President Bola Tinubu, with recent steps suggesting moves towards resolving the crisis that had unsettled the state’s political landscape.
