Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio took aim at Rivers
State Governor Sir Siminialayi Fubara and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
during the public lecture and book launch organized to celebrate the birthday
of Chief Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in Port
Harcourt.
The event, themed Pragmatic Strides of a Visionary Leader
and Contemporary Issues of Society, drew a massive audience of Wike’s
supporters, friends, and associates nationwide. Organized by the NEW
Associates—a political group named after Wike’s initials—the event became a
platform for political commentary and camaraderie.
Akpabio, the Special Guest of Honour, used the opportunity
to critique Fubara’s management of Rivers State’s ongoing political crisis,
especially regarding his relationship with the legislature. He emphasized the
importance of maintaining strong ties with legislative leadership, sharing
lessons from his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State.
“For those who may not understand politics, we were taught
that the parliament can turn a woman into a man and a man into a woman,”
Akpabio remarked, eliciting laughter from the audience. “As a governor, my
greatest fear was my House of Assembly. That’s why I always worked closely with
my Speaker.”
He also questioned Fubara’s inability to win over some of
the 27 lawmakers in Wike’s camp, suggesting a flaw in the governor’s political
strategy.
“The only way to stop politics of betrayal and treachery is
through sustainable governance,” Akpabio said, lamenting how these issues
hinder progress and succession planning.
Akpabio lauded Wike’s contributions to governance and
infrastructure, calling him a “miracle worker” for his transformation of Abuja.
He credited Wike’s success to his dedication and passion, describing him as a
leader with a forgiving spirit.
“No one in their right senses would sustain a quarrel with
Wike,” Akpabio said, recounting Wike’s ability to reconcile quickly after
disagreements.
Addressing Wike directly, Akpabio said, “Your contributions
to Nigeria’s political landscape, both as governor and now as minister, are
indelible. The bridges you’ve built stand as a testament to your commitment to
progress and unity.”
The PDP, represented by Deputy National Chairman (South)
Taofeek Arapaja, expressed support for Wike, describing him as one of the
party’s most loyal leaders.
“We stand by you, our leader. You are a man of equity,
justice, and fairness,” Arapaja said. However, he disagreed with Akpabio’s
criticisms of the PDP, reminding the audience that Akpabio’s political roots
were in the party.
In his remarks, Wike dismissed criticisms against him,
stating that he remains focused on delivering results. “The only way to silence
critics is to show them your performance,” he said, adding that his priority is
achieving results for the public and maintaining the support of President Bola
Tinubu.
Guest Lecturer Prof. Julius Ihonvbere highlighted Nigeria’s
challenges, including insecurity, unemployment, and corruption, emphasizing
that solving these issues requires focus and better management.
The Chairman of the occasion, former NBA President OCJ
Okocha, described Wike as a “superlative performer with a Midas touch,”
commending his achievements and dedication.
The event concluded with tributes to Wike’s leadership and
legacy, underscoring his influence in Nigerian politics.
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