Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has earnestly appealed to his loyal supporters, affectionately referred to as the Simplified Family, to embrace the recently brokered peace accord between himself and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. This reconciliation, Fubara explained, carries significant weight and demands acceptance despite the potentially arduous terms. He emphasized that the pursuit of peace transcends any personal cost and necessitates compromises for the greater good of Rivers State. This plea for understanding came during a meeting with the Simplified Family in Port Harcourt, where Fubara candidly addressed the difficult path towards reconciliation.
Fubara revealed that the peace deal stemmed from a series of meetings, including one with President Tinubu, who explicitly urged both Fubara and Wike to resolve their differences. Acknowledging Wike’s instrumental role in his political journey, Fubara underscored the importance of recognizing past contributions even amidst disagreements. He stressed that while both he and Wike experienced pain and hurt during their period of discord, the need for reconciliation superseded individual grievances. The governor depicted the peace process as a direct dialogue between himself and Wike, where they openly addressed their concerns and agreed upon the terms of their reconciliation, emphasizing the significance of their direct involvement in achieving a genuine and lasting peace.
Fubara acknowledged the weight of the concessions made for the sake of peace, characterizing them as “heavy” and “bitter” but ultimately necessary. He reassured his supporters of his unwavering commitment to them, pledging not to abandon them despite the difficult choices that lay ahead. This assurance aimed to allay potential anxieties and reaffirm his loyalty to the Simplified Family, emphasizing that the sacrifices made were essential for the overall progress and development of the state. Fubara stressed that genuine reconciliation between him and Wike was a prerequisite for progress in Rivers State, highlighting the impossibility of presidential intervention without this foundational peace.
The gravity of the situation was further underscored by Fubara’s observation of stalled projects within the state, a direct consequence of the prolonged conflict. He emphasized that achieving peace was paramount not just for personal reasons, but for the advancement of Rivers State as a whole. The abandoned projects served as a tangible manifestation of the cost of discord and reinforced the urgency of embracing the peace agreement, however difficult its terms. He promised integration of his supporters into the larger political family, calling upon their loyalty and support in this crucial moment of transition. His message focused on the collective benefit of unity and its importance in securing a future where progress and development could flourish.
Fubara argued that their struggle had reached a point where peace was the only viable solution, reaffirming his commitment to this path regardless of the personal cost. He addressed potential discontent among his followers, emphasizing the importance of unity and support for the president in the interest of the state’s overall development. He called upon them to demonstrate their loyalty and commitment by standing with him during this challenging period. Fubara used the analogy of the tilapia fish, which hides its head in the mud to grow, to illustrate the necessity of accepting the current situation, however challenging, for future growth and prosperity.
In essence, Governor Fubara’s address was a heartfelt appeal for understanding and unity. He emphasized the difficult but crucial decision to reconcile with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, for the greater good of Rivers State. He acknowledged the sacrifices required from his supporters, the Simplified Family, assuring them of his unwavering commitment despite the arduous terms of the peace accord. Fubara’s message centered on the paramount importance of peace for the progress and development of the state, emphasizing the need to look beyond individual grievances and embrace a future of collective growth and prosperity. He called for unity, loyalty, and understanding, framing the current challenges as necessary steps towards a brighter future for Rivers State.
