Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, has assured the people of the state that he will not allow the power of his office to alter his character or lead him to actions that could bring shame to himself or his supporters. This promise was made during a celebration of his 50th birthday with key leaders, elders, and stakeholders from the state.
The event took place at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where the governor expressed his gratitude to the elders who visited to celebrate with him. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara was quoted as emphasizing that despite the responsibilities and privileges that come with his position, he would remain grounded and true to his values.
Fubara told the gathering, “I want to say that I will still be the Fubara that you know; power will not change me. I will still make sure that what I hold dear in life remains, which is God and my respect for people.” He added that his personal beliefs and respect for others would remain unchanged, regardless of the office he holds.
The governor’s message was clear: his leadership will be characterized by humility, integrity, and a deep respect for the people of Rivers State. “Power will come, power will go, but I will still remain the Fubara that you know,” he stated, signaling his commitment to stay true to his roots and principles.
Fubara also reassured the people of the state that with their support, progress could still be made, even if it is a gradual process. “With your support, that Rivers State that we all yearn for, we will definitely, even if we don’t get it completely, we will put those things in place that will channel and drive us to that Rivers State,” he said.
The governor emphasized that his focus would be on achieving tangible improvements in the state, driven by the collective will of its people. However, he cautioned that this would not happen overnight, but through sustained effort and mutual support.
While speaking, Fubara made it clear that his 50th birthday celebration was not the appropriate occasion to delve into political discussions. He reiterated, “This morning is a birthday morning. It is not a morning to discuss politics,” suggesting that the event was meant to be a moment of reflection and celebration, not a forum for political discourse.
Fubara’s remarks come during ongoing political dynamics in Rivers State, where tensions have arisen between him and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The two politicians have been at odds over control of the state’s political machinery, a situation that has created a divide within the state’s political landscape.
Governor Sim Fubara’s statement on his 50th birthday serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with political leadership. His vow to remain unchanged by the trappings of power resonates with those who hope for a leader who will act with humility and in the best interests of the people he serves.