In politics, survival is for the strong-willed, the strategic, and the fearless. Unfortunately, Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, appears to lack these essential qualities. His naivety and inexperience are costing him dearly, as he struggles to navigate the political war orchestrated by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
From the onset, it was clear that Fubara had inherited a crisis, but what has been shocking is his inability to take decisive action. Instead of asserting himself as the elected leader of Rivers State, he has allowed Wike to continuously undermine his authority. The former governor—now a federal minister—has made it clear that he still holds the reins of power in Rivers. And Fubara, rather than seizing control, has chosen the path of hesitation and indecision.
At this point, the ongoing battle for supremacy in Rivers politics has moved beyond mere power struggles; it is a test of leadership. A true leader does not wait for sympathy. A true leader does not allow his authority to be reduced to mere ceremonial status. A true leader fights back when pushed against the wall. But Fubara has done none of these.
The Rivers political crisis could have ended months ago had Fubara shown courage. He had the chance to rally support, assert his control over the state legislature, and make strong moves to curtail Wike’s influence. Instead, he has spent months playing the victim while his authority erodes daily. Governance in Rivers State is suffering because the governor lacks the political will to act decisively.
One wonders what Fubara expected when he took office. Did he think Wike would simply walk away and let him govern without interference? Anyone familiar with Nigerian politics knows that godfathers do not give up power easily. They control, manipulate, and dictate, and unless the protégé fights back, he becomes a mere pawn in their game. This is exactly what is playing out in Rivers State today.
The truth is harsh, but it must be said: Fubara is failing not because Wike is too powerful, but because he himself is too weak. His timidity and lack of strategic action are handing his adversary victory on a silver platter. If he does not wake up soon, he will be reduced to a powerless figurehead, and Rivers State will become a playground for political gladiators while governance takes a backseat.
For those still sympathizing with Fubara, it is time to stop.
BY: Godwin Offor
