Former President Dr Goodluck Jonathan has appealed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to set aside their differences and collaborate for the betterment of Rivers State.
The call for unity comes amidst a year-long political crisis in the state, following a fallout between Wike, now the FCT Minister, and Fubara, his successor as governor.
Speaking today during the flag-off ceremony of the Trans-Kalabari Road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Jonathan emphasized the importance of outgoing and incoming governors working together for the collective interest of the citizens.
“In the case of Rivers, Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must work together to develop the land and people of Rivers State. The tension will not help us,” Jonathan stressed.
He further urged political actors to prioritize the well-being of the Rivers people over personal differences, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and a truce to restore stability and progress in the state.
“Rivers State is very critical in this country. Rivers State is the heart of the Niger Delta. If River State is destabilized, the whole Niger Delta will be destabilized,” Jonathan warned, highlighting the broader implications of political unrest in the region.
Expressing concern over the increasing noise and political turbulence at the state level, Jonathan underscored the importance of smooth transitions and collaborative governance to avoid crises.
“Transition in Nigeria is becoming a problem. At the centre, presidents have taken over from presidents. There are always issues. But at the state level, it is becoming noisy and I feel that that is not the best,” Jonathan remarked, urging Fubara and Wike to prioritize unity and cooperation.
The former president’s appeal comes as a ray of hope for reconciliation and stability in Rivers State, with many hoping that the leaders will heed his call for peace and work together for the greater good of the state and its people.
