Senate President Godswill Akpabio has openly criticized Rivers State Governor, Siminialayi Fubara, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over their handling of political tensions in the state.
Speaking during the birthday celebration of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in Port Harcourt on Friday, Akpabio questioned Fubara’s inability to resolve the crisis among the state’s lawmakers.
As the Special Guest of Honour at the event, Akpabio mocked Fubara’s failure to secure support from members of the state assembly loyal to Wike.
Drawing on his experience as a former Akwa Ibom State governor, Akpabio highlighted the critical role of maintaining good relations with the legislature, emphasizing that the House of Assembly holds significant power over a governor.
Recalling his own tenure, Akpabio said, “As a governor, my greatest concern was my House of Assembly.
“I maintained a close relationship with my Speaker, ensuring we remained aligned. Any governor who cannot manage the legislature is politically vulnerable.”
Akpabio further criticized Fubara’s inability to leverage the state’s resources to win over dissenting lawmakers, hinting at flaws in the governor’s political strategy.
He also lamented what he described as a culture of betrayal and treachery in politics, arguing that it undermines governance and succession planning.
Reflecting on sustainability in leadership, Akpabio said, “Governance cannot thrive when successors are focused on dismantling the achievements of their predecessors.
“Sustainable leadership requires a focus on building and continuity.”
The event, organized by the NEW Associates—a political group named after Wike’s initials—also featured a lecture by House Majority Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, which Akpabio critiqued for omitting discussions on sustainability in governance.
Wike, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the NEW Associates and attendees, brushing off criticisms aimed at him.
He reiterated his commitment to delivering results for the public, asserting that detractors’ opinions do not faze him.
“I stay focused on achieving results,” Wike said. “Criticism doesn’t matter to me. What matters is making Nigerians proud through visible accomplishments.
“The only way to silence critics is through performance.”
The former Rivers governor also highlighted his satisfaction with the support he receives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that his focus remains on governance and development, particularly in the FCT.
“When the time for politics comes, we will address it, but for now, it’s all about delivering impactful projects,” Wike concluded.
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