Rivers State Governor Fubara Urged to Prioritize Governance Over Detractors – Ikubese

Former presidential aspirant and Convener of the YesWeFit Revolutionary Movement, Dr. Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, has appealed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to avoid distractions from political detractors and praise-singers and instead place his focus on good governance for the benefit of the people.

Speaking in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Friday, Ikubese stressed that leadership requires firmness and accountability. He advised Governor Fubara to resist the temptation of being influenced by political sycophants or critics whose intentions may not align with the progress of the state.

Ikubese further appealed to former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to refrain from interfering unnecessarily in the affairs of Rivers State. He emphasized that such interference could destabilize governance, urging Wike to allow peace and stability to prevail for the collective interest of the people.

The activist also raised concerns about the actions of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), who administered Rivers State as sole administrator during a six-month emergency rule. According to him, the administrator failed to provide a proper handover to Governor Fubara after his tenure.

Quoting his words:

“It is indeed surprising that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd) exited his role after six months of managing the resources of Rivers State without presenting a formal handover to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Transparency demands that he publishes a detailed account of his activities during that emergency period for public record and accountability.”

Ikubese reminded Nigerians that while Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) provides for the declaration of a state of emergency, it does not give the president powers to suspend democratic structures in any state.

He therefore urged the judiciary to deliver timely judgments on the various suits already filed by concerned stakeholders, including the ongoing case instituted by seven PDP governors, stressing that such rulings are crucial to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.

Ikubese concluded by reaffirming that only a transparent, accountable, and people-centered governance system will ensure peace and sustainable development in Rivers State.