Wike reveals Fubara’s biggest mistakes as Rivers governor

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has publicly stated that his successor, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, made critical errors by attempting to operate independently and prematurely establishing his own political base. Wike expressed surprise that Fubara began consolidating his political structure within his first 100 days in office, viewing it as a sign of disrespect to those who supported his rise.

Speaking at a media chat in Port Harcourt, Wike asserted that he had established a strong foundation for Rivers State's development, aiming to elevate it to par with Lagos in infrastructure. He lamented that Fubara seemed to have different priorities. Wike pointed to his own legacy projects, such as the multi-billion-naira Port Harcourt Ring Road and 12 commissioned flyovers, as examples of the progress he intended Fubara to continue building upon.

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In politics you have to be careful. There are those who want you to succeed and make a name. The opportunity that you have been given, not everybody that has that opportunity. There are those who are not happy who don’t want you to be there, and you have to be very careful.

Wike cautioned politicians about the importance of careful navigation in their careers, suggesting that Fubara's missteps had widened the development gap between Rivers and Lagos. He recalled a church service before his handover, where he advised Fubara on his ambitions and the need to compete with Lagos, promising his support. However, Wike alleged that Fubara began listening to individuals who wished him to fail, including those vying for the governorship themselves, and that these influences encouraged Fubara to confront Wike.

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Remember before I handed over to governor Fubara we did a church service and I did say that you have been elected. Few days you will be sworn in, Now what do you want to achieve? See where I have stopped. My thinking is that we do need to compete with Lagos. We have laid the foundation, he (Fubara) should be able to continue from there, we will give you all the necessary support.