By Christiana Ekpa
Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan has stressed that Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, Minister of the Federal Capital Terrritory, Nyesom Wike, must work together for the good of the people of the state.
The former President expressed concern over the challenges associated with transition of power in the country.
Jonathan spoke as the special guest of honour at an event organized by the Rivers State Government to inaugurate the construction of the Trans-Kalabari Road Project on Monday.
The former President stated that while issues often arise during transition of power from one President to another at the national level, they are generally better managed.
He stated that it has also become a challenge transiting power from one governor to another.
Citing the political crisis in Rivers State as an example, Jonathan advised both the incumbent and immediate past governor to collaborate for the welfare of the people of the state.
In addressing the situation in Rivers State, Jonathan emphasized the necessity for cooperation between the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Governor Sim Fubara, underscoring the detrimental effects of tension in a region as crucial as the heart of the Niger Delta.
He said, “On that note let me plead, because the political tension in the state is becoming too much.
“Transition in Nigeria is becoming a problem. At the center, Presidents have been taking over from Presidents, there are always issues but at least it’s better managed.
“But at the state level, it’s becoming noisy in so many states. And I say that is not the best.
“Outgoing governors and incoming governors must know that they work together for the collective interest of the citizens of the state.
“And that is critical because you must work together. In this case of Rivers State, Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must work together for developing the lands and the people of Rivers State.
“The tension will not help us. Rivers State is very critical in this country. Rivers State is the heart of the Niger Delta.
“If Rivers State is destabilized, the whole Niger Delta will be destabilized. And it will not end within the Niger Delta alone because I’m from this part of the country and I know how the system works.
“And we don’t want any crisis in Rivers State. Leaders must know that nobody takes hundred per cent, you must learn the principle of give and take.
“So, all political actors must work together if you love the Rivers people.”
Speaking about the inauguration of the Trans-Kalabari Road, Jonathan said the construction will enhance the economic development of Rivers State.
He noted that the road construction would aid security forces in maintaining order and safety within the state while also decreasing accidents on waterways, saying, “ When you make major roads across the riverine areas, you have solved numerous problems.”
Jonathan commended Fubara for commencing the construction of the road project, acknowledging its importance for the region’s development.
“When I was invited to come and flag-off, I said that it’s only a person who has vision and commitment to develop his people that can do this
“So, Your Excellency, let me commend you for your vision and the courage to start the project because it’s not going to be tea party.”
The former President called on the people of Rivers State to support the governor, adding that he has “shown within this short period that he is somebody who is focused and who has the commitment to move Rivers State to a higher level”.
“And we need the maximum cooperation,” he added.
