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.
Vanguard
