Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has advised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to seek reconciliation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, rather than continue on a path of political confrontation.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, Fayose said many politicians rise to power through the support and influence of others, stressing that humility is crucial for political survival.
“My position has always been clear. Fubara and others got their strength from people who helped them along the way,” Fayose said while reacting to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
He described the power tussle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, as unhealthy for governance and urged the Rivers governor to prioritise peace. Fayose pointed to examples from other states, noting that humility has helped some leaders avoid political turmoil.
“Look at Kogi State. Why are there no serious issues there? The governor is humble. Whatever anyone says about Yahaya Bello, he remembers the day Bello gave him that platform,” he said.
Fayose also recalled advice he once gave his own successor in Ekiti State, encouraging cooperation rather than hostility. According to him, remembering who provided political opportunities can prevent unnecessary conflicts.
He cautioned Fubara against challenging Wike’s influence in Rivers politics, especially regarding claims of leadership and political authority.
“There is a difference between holding office and being the political leader. Who gave you the platform to even be called ‘001’? It is unfortunate that Governor Fubara is struggling instead of managing the situation,” Fayose said.
The former governor appealed directly to Fubara to seek peace, urging him to make genuine efforts toward reconciliation. He warned that political allies who encourage confrontation often disappear when trouble arises.
“Those pushing Governor Fubara to fight will not be there if things go wrong. I’ve been there before. When I was isolated, they were nowhere to be found,” he said.
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Fayose further advised Fubara to learn from past political experiences, noting that impeachment threats could have ended his career abruptly. He urged the Rivers governor to respect political mentorship and constitutional processes.
“Climb down from your high horse, look for your brother and leader, the man who gave you the opportunity to become governor, and make peace,” Fayose said.
The advice comes amid moves by the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara over allegations of gross misconduct. The political crisis in the state, which began in late 2023, has been linked to a prolonged power struggle between Fubara and Wike over control of the state’s political structure and legislature.
