By Milcah Tanimu
Former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has cautioned his political protégé and successor, Siminalayi Fubara, against attending political gatherings in Abuja.
Wike, who is considered Fubara’s political godfather, expressed his concern that nothing positive would come out of such meetings. Instead, he advised Fubara to remain in the state and focus on governing with humility and good governance.
Praising Fubara’s actions, Wike mentioned that his successor had already contributed 75% of the N150 billion needed for the Port Harcourt Ring Road project. He noted that ideally, this project should have been led by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), but he criticized the commission for acting primarily as a “Niger Delta Cash Cow.”
Wike expressed gratitude that Fubara demonstrated humility and lack of arrogance, unlike some other politicians who become haughty as soon as they assume power.
Addressing Fubara directly, Wike emphasized that the people who elected him are in Rivers State and that his focus should be on the state’s challenges. He warned against being swayed by meetings in Abuja that often yield no tangible results and urged him to concentrate on developing the state for the benefit of its citizens.
Wike’s final advice to Fubara was to stay in Rivers State, work diligently, and ultimately gain the appreciation and support of the people through meaningful development initiatives.