Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that his calm and restrained posture during the political crisis in the state was a deliberate choice aimed at preserving peace and protecting broader national interests.
The governor made the remarks on Friday night while receiving the Man of the Year 2025 award from New Telegraph at a ceremony held at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.
Addressing the audience, Fubara acknowledged the sacrifices of his supporters, noting that many of them have endured difficult moments because of their loyalty to him.
“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me. And I know for believing in me you have a share of special pain,” he said.
Fubara explained that his perceived “weakness” amid the political turbulence in Rivers State was strategic rather than a sign of surrender.
“I chose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak because I want peace. Weak because I need to also protect those things that are dear not just to me but to our dear nation,” he stated.
The governor described what some critics see as weakness as a virtue that would ultimately prove beneficial.
“Continue to believe in what you believe in. Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time,” he added, urging his supporters to remain steadfast despite the current political situation in the state.
The award was presented by veteran journalist and former Ogun State governor, Olusegun Osoba. The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Board of New Telegraph and former Abia State governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, as well as the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal.
Fubara’s remarks come against the backdrop of prolonged political tensions in Rivers State, with the governor insisting that his approach has been guided by a desire to ensure stability and safeguard the interests of the state and the nation.
