Jonathan: Fubara, Wike must work together — political tension not helping Rivers

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has asked Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, and his successor, Nyesom Wike, to settle their differences and work together.

Jonathan spoke on Monday during the flag-off of Trans-Kalabari road in Obio/Akpor LGA of Rivers.

The former president said the political tension in the state owing to the feud between Wike and Fubara is not helpful.

He called on the two politicians to “cease fire” and work together for the success of the state, adding that Rivers is the “heart” of the Niger Delta region.

The former president said issues involving the transition of power have been causing controversy in states, unlike at the federal level.

“The political tension in the state is becoming so much,” Jonathan said.

“In this state, Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara must work together for the development of the land and the people of Rivers state.

“The tension will not help us. Rivers state is very critical in this country. It is the heart of the Niger Delta.

“If Rivers state is destabilised, the whole Niger Delta will be destabilised.

“There is a common saying that when two elephants are fighting, the grass suffers. Both the governor and our ministers are young people and powerful.

“If they continue to fight, the Rivers people will suffer. We are calling them to embrace themselves.”

Since 2023, Fubara and Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), have been at loggerheads over political control of the state.

The rift has led to the polarisation of the Rivers state house of assembly.

The commissioners loyal to Wike have resigned from Fubara’s cabinet.

Recently, Wike apologised for backing Fubara to succeed him as governor, adding that he would correct that mistake in 2027.

Subsequently, Fubara said a judicial panel of inquiry would be set up to investigate the management of the state’s resources and affairs under past administrations.