Former Governor of Rivers State and elder statesman, Dr. Peter Odili, has openly declared his support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, affirming that the governor remains the undisputed political leader of Rivers State despite the ongoing political crisis rocking the state.
Odili made this known on Tuesday at a public event in Port Harcourt, where he spoke pointedly against the backdrop of renewed political tensions and power struggles within the state’s political landscape.
“Your People Are With You”
Addressing Governor Fubara directly, Odili delivered a strong message of reassurance, stressing that the governor enjoys the backing of the Rivers people.
“Your people are with you, and they have asked me to tell you that you are the political leader of Rivers State,” Odili declared.
He emphasized that leadership flows from the mandate freely given by the people, noting that once a governor is elected and sworn in, loyalty and recognition should naturally follow.
A Call for Steadfastness and Faith
In a deeply symbolic and motivational tone, the former governor urged Fubara not to waver in the face of political pressure.
“Rivers people said that wherever you go, we will go with you. Wherever you stand, we will stand with you. You are standing on firm ground. Stand there and hold on to God,” Odili said.
The remarks were widely interpreted as both a moral boost for the governor and a clear signal to political stakeholders about where the loyalty of the people lies.
Political Leadership Rests With the Governor
Odili reiterated that Governor Fubara, by virtue of his electoral mandate, is the political leader of Rivers State. According to him, governance cannot thrive in an atmosphere of constant confrontation and division, urging political actors to respect constituted authority and allow the governor to focus on delivering dividends of democracy.
He stressed that Rivers State’s progress depends on unity, stability, and collective support for the sitting governor rather than factional battles.
Endorsement Amid Fubara–Wike Face-Off
Odili’s declaration comes amid a renewed face-off between Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, a development that has intensified political tension in the state.
Political observers see Odili’s intervention as significant, given his long-standing influence in Rivers politics and his role as a unifying voice among party elders.
A Message to Rivers Stakeholders
Beyond personal support for Fubara, Odili’s statement serves as a broader call to party leaders, elders, and stakeholders to close ranks and prioritize the peace and development of Rivers State.
As the political situation continues to evolve, Odili’s words reinforce Governor Fubara’s legitimacy and standing, making it clear that, in the eyes of key elders and the wider populace, the mantle of leadership in Rivers State firmly rests with him.