Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s ongoing political challenges are molding him into a stronger leader, former President Goodluck Jonathan has said.
Speaking at the first Etche Festival of Food, Art, and Culture held in Nihi Community, Etche Local Government Area, Jonathan expressed confidence that the governor would emerge as a political “General” from his experiences.
The event, held on Sunday, also marked the 10th coronation anniversary of His Royal Highness, Eze Ken O. Nwala, the Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo-Umuselem in Etche. Both Jonathan and Fubara were honored with traditional titles during the celebration. Fubara received the title of *Dike Oha 1* of Etche land, while Jonathan was named *Eze Udo 1* of Etche land.
Addressing the gathering, Jonathan urged the people of Rivers State to rally behind Governor Fubara to ensure peace and progress in the state.
He acknowledged the governor’s struggles, including conflicts with his predecessor and political mentor, Nyesom Wike, which have led to significant turbulence in the state’s political landscape.
Last year, Fubara survived an impeachment attempt that left the state’s House of Assembly deeply divided and sparked multiple incidents of violence.
Jonathan said, “I know you are passing through challenges, and at occasions like these, I try to keep quiet. I don’t like to say certain things.
“But this is first time you are holding a top political office. You will pass through a lot. And just know that nobody becomes a General without fighting wars.
“So, whatever challenges you are meeting now is baking you to be a General in politics. And with your total commitment and with the support I have seen from the people of Rivers State, God will surely see you through.”
Jonathan emphasised the critical position that Rivers State occupies, and warned that whatever happens to it negatively will impact on the entire country in the long run.
“We want a peaceful Rivers State, because Rivers State is the centre of the Niger Delta. And I always make it very clear: if we create serious perturbation in Rivers State, we are creating crisis in the Niger Delta, which is not good for our economy as a nation.
“We want a peaceful Rivers State. We want the Governor of Rivers State to be allowed to remain calm and do his work. After he finishes serving, another person will take over.
“In political office, we have tenures. And so, we don’t need to kill ourselves over any political office. Allow those who are there to do their work, and after that, anything can happen.”
