Governor Siminalayi Fubara has publicly acknowledged the role played by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in his political rise, declaring he would not have become governor without the minister’s backing.
Fubara spoke on Friday while receiving the Man of the Year Award from New Telegraph, using the occasion to express appreciation despite the widely reported rift between the two political figures.
The Rivers governor said Wike’s support and mentorship gave him the opportunity to contest and ultimately secure the governorship seat.
According to him, the honour was dedicated to the FCT minister whom he described as the figure who discovered him and amplified his political voice.
“I do not care how the statement is interpreted or misinterpreted. I dedicate this award to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, my oga, Nyesom Wike. Without him, I would not be standing here as governor,” Fubara said.
He added that Wike’s belief in him provided the platform that shaped his political journey and visibility.
Fubara also dedicated the recognition to the people of Rivers State, commending residents for what he described as their patience, maturity and support which, he noted, had sustained the state through recent political tensions.
