Former President Goodluck Jonathan has intervened in the ongoing political feud in Rivers State, urging Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to work together for the benefit of the state.
Jonathan made this appeal on Monday during the unveiling of the Trans-Kalabari Road in Rivers State.
Jonathan expressed concern over the frequent conflicts between governors and their predecessors, noting that such disputes are becoming common in Nigeria. He emphasized that these battles are detrimental to the citizens and residents of the affected states.
“Outgoing governors and incoming governors must know that they work together for the collective interest of the citizens of the state, and that is critical,” Jonathan stated.
He specifically addressed the situation in Rivers State, saying, “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.”
The former president urged political actors to prioritize the well-being of the people, calling for an end to hostilities. “I join the leaders of Rivers State and well-meaning Nigerians who have been calling for a truce and ceasefire to also reemphasize that there is a need for a ceasefire.
We call on them [Wike and Fubara] to embrace themselves. One hand does not clap. It takes two hands to clap. So, we want them to work together for the collective interest,” Jonathan added.
He also highlighted the broader issue of problematic transitions in Nigerian politics, pointing out that while presidential transitions have their challenges, state-level transitions are increasingly fraught with noise and conflict. “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,” he said.
The feud between Wike and Fubara has been long-standing, prompting even President Bola Tinubu to step in to ease the tension.
Recently, five pro-Wike commissioners resigned, citing a hostile working environment, following the resignation of four others earlier. In a bid to prevent a possible impeachment, Fubara moved the state assembly to a wing in the government house.
Jonathan’s call for cooperation underscores the need for political unity to ensure the development and progress of Rivers State.