The ongoing tensions between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, continue unabated, recently flaring up due to a disagreement concerning Fubara’s identity as an Ijaw.
The rift sparked when Wike, addressing the political turmoil in Rivers State, hinted that an individual’s true character could be revealed by their relationship with money and power.
Additionally, during a book launch in Port Harcourt, the former Rivers State governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory suggested that some individuals claimed Opobo people were not part of the Ijaw ethnic group.
Fubara strongly opposed Wike’s assertions, affirming the inherent strength and resoluteness of the Ijaw people in facing challenges and resisting temptations.
He specifically highlighted the integral role of his Opobo people within the larger Ijaw community, dismissing any notions suggesting otherwise.
Fubara emphasized, “There’s widespread speculation that I’m not a ‘true’ Ijaw, that I’m somehow incomplete in my identity. However, Ijaw heritage is incomplete without Opobo. Whoever is propagating this misinformation should revisit their history books.”
He added, “You cannot discuss the Ijaw struggle without considering Opobo, Bonny, and Kalabari. Our historical trade connections attest to our genuine Ijaw lineage.”
In definitive terms, Fubara asserted, “I am unequivocally and entirely Ijaw through and through, to the core of my being.”
Fubara’s statements emerged amid reports of an attempted impeachment, reportedly orchestrated by legislators loyal to Wike. However, this move was reportedly halted following the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.