|By Chinwendu Nwani
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has firmly defended his decision to adopt what critics labelled as “weakness” in his political confrontation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declaring that the move was deliberate and calculated to secure peace and protect national interest.
Fubara made the declaration on Friday in Lagos while receiving the Man of the Year award at the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night. In an emotionally charged acceptance speech, the governor reflected on the political turbulence in Rivers State and the personal toll of leadership amid an intense rivalry with his predecessor.
Addressing supporters and observers who have questioned his approach, Fubara insisted that his posture was neither accidental nor born out of fear. Rather, he described it as a strategic choice designed to preserve stability and ensure political survival in a volatile environment.
“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,” he said, acknowledging the strain the crisis has placed on his loyalists.
The governor noted that the prolonged political tension in Rivers State has significantly shaped governance decisions and public perception. He stressed that while some critics interpret his approach as weakness, others recognize it as strength exercised with restraint.
“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,” Fubara declared.
He further explained that survival — both political and institutional — influenced his stance. According to him, escalation would have jeopardized not only his administration but also broader interests tied to stability in the oil-rich state.
“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 added.
In a statement likely to intensify political debate, Fubara concluded with a philosophical assertion: “Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”
His remarks come amid ongoing political friction in Rivers State, where the rift between him and Wike has continued to reshape alliances and influence governance dynamics. Observers say the governor’s latest comments signal a continued preference for strategic restraint over open confrontation.
