Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has defended his decision to adopt what critics have described as a posture of “weakness” amid his prolonged political confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking on Friday in Lagos while receiving the Man of the Year award at the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night, Fubara said his approach was a calculated move aimed at preserving peace, ensuring political survival, and protecting broader national interests.
In an emotional acceptance speech, the governor reflected on the pressures of leadership and the lingering political tensions that have shaped governance in Rivers State in recent months.
“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know for believing in me, you have a share of special pain,” Fubara said, acknowledging the strain supporters have endured during the crisis.
Addressing public perceptions of his handling of the dispute, the governor noted that his strategy has often been misunderstood. He insisted that his choices were deliberate and guided by a commitment to stability.
“Some of these pains, some persons described them as weakness, while others say it as being strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak, because I want peace.
“Weak, because we need to survive. Weak, because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” he said.
In a remark likely to further shape political discourse surrounding the Rivers crisis, Fubara added: “Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”
The governor’s comments come amid ongoing efforts at reconciliation within the state’s political structure, as tensions between allies of the two political figures continue to influence the direction of governance in Rivers State.
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