Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has responded to critics of his administration, attributing their antagonism to frustration over the successes his government has achieved. The governor emphasized that those opposing him are bent on seizing control of the state for their personal gains but assured that his administration has secured Rivers State for the benefit of all its people.
Governor Fubara made these remarks during an inter-denominational church thanksgiving service held at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Anglican Communion, Garrison Junction, Port Harcourt. The event was part of activities marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration.
In his speech, the governor clarified misconceptions surrounding a recent loan his government secured for infrastructure development. He emphasized that his administration is responsible for signing the contractual sum of N200 billion with Zenith Bank to fund the construction of the 50.15-kilometer dual carriage Port Harcourt Ring Road, a project launched under his leadership.
“They even say they don’t know what we are doing,” Fubara remarked. “Let me remind them: it is Fubara that signed the paper to borrow N200 billion from Zenith Bank for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road. So, it is my project.”
He further highlighted the commencement of the Trans-Kalabari Road, a project that had previously seen little progress. According to Fubara, his administration has committed N225 billion to complete the road, which his predecessors could not finish. He pointed out that while they only built a bridge from Krakrama, he is completing the entire road project—without borrowing funds for it.
Addressing his critics, Fubara maintained that his administration’s focus remains on serving the people of Rivers State. “It is not about doing roads for business interests. I don’t have any business interests. Whatever I am doing, I am doing it for the people of Rivers State,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed that his government would only take decisions that they could defend and would not involve itself in anything that could bring disgrace to Rivers State. “This State is important to us. It is the only thing we have. It is the beautiful pride. That is why they are struggling,” Fubara noted, referencing improvements in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) as one reason for the mounting opposition.
In a biblical metaphor, Fubara assured the people of Rivers State that the current challenges they face will soon pass, likening his political opponents to “Babylonians.” He expressed confidence that those causing unrest would eventually disappear from the political scene.
“God has a reason for allowing the devil or the evil one to stay long. It is not that He can’t take them away, but He gives them time to repent. And when they continue, He will come heavily,” Fubara said, adding that this will soon be the case in Rivers State.
In a pointed remark seemingly directed at former Governor Nyesom Wike, who recently vowed to teach Fubara’s supporters a political lesson, the governor remained resolute. “Anybody making noise for recognition is a sign that they have lost it. By the special grace of God, I don’t need an introduction. I have the name, and I am the one standing here,” Fubara declared.
Governor Fubara’s comments come in the wake of tensions with Wike, who has claimed to be politically superior to Fubara and his supporters.