Beware of fair weather friends, Rivers youths tell Fubara

Governor Siminalaye Fubara of Rivers State has been cautioned to be wary of the antics of fair-weather friends bent on taking undue advantage of the conflict between him and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

The Rivers Youths Alliance behind the admonition stressed that the Abuja truce brokered by President Bola Tinubu was well thought out as it was reflective of his political wisdom and pragmatic experience in various leadership positions.

Urging Governor Fubara to consider thorough introspection and a return to his political roots by understanding that true leadership requires humility and loyalty to those genuinely vested in his success, not fleeting alliances from fair-weather friends who may be aiming for opportunities to either exploit or weaken him before a future challenge.

The group, in a statement by Mr Tamuno Amadi-Douglas, noted that the several individuals and groups who see personal opportunities in any political feud between Fubara and Wike will rather short-circuit the governor’s political future instead of letting go.

They noted: “The recent political turmoil in Rivers State has captured national and even international attention, propelling the state into the limelight for all the wrong reasons; the unfolding drama has led to the formation of two entrenched opposing factions, escalating tensions within the state’s political sphere.

“In the midst of this turbulence, armchair critics and self-proclaimed experts have emerged, offering opinions and analysis often without credible evidence or genuine stake in Rivers State; while some outsiders use the situation for personal gain, a few from within the state join in pursuit of financial benefits, exacerbating the already tense environment with misguided comments and baseless claims.

“Fubara, a longtime confidant of Wike since 1999, has seen heightened suspicion and a sudden deterioration in their relationship, prompting questions about what went wrong and why this mentorship soured; regrettably, respected elders and leaders, instead of dousing the flames, have contributed to the chaos, spinning disparaging narratives and shifting positions, further confusing the populace while their actions and disregard for truth and accountability, worsen the already dire situation.

“Moreover, recent political maneuvers and alliances, especially Fubara’s association with past adversaries, signal betrayal and ingratitude, casting doubt on the sincerity of his newfound circle of supporters and Governor Fubara’s recent actions, including undemocratic practices and provocative decisions, risk further political instability.

“His confrontational stance, such as the closure of the Assembly Chambers and questionable legislative procedures, could eventually lead to impeachment or worse, a declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers by the Federal Government while Fubara’s shift in loyalty and actions against the mutually agreed upon 8-point “Resolution” brokered by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite earlier calls for Tinubu’s intervention, baffles many observers.

“This sudden change of heart may lead Fubara into political isolation and irrelevance that may benefit some of those urging him on now but to avert a political downfall, Fubara must adhere to the spirit and letter of the Abuja agreement brokered by Tinubu, prioritizing peace and reconciliation in Rivers State because his newfound advisers, while seemingly supportive, may have ulterior motives that don’t align with Fubara’s long-term interests.

“In truth, Wike remains the pivotal figure truly invested in Fubara’s success and political growth: Fubara should acknowledge Tinubu’s role in reshaping his political landscape and embrace genuine reconciliation with Wike by setting aside the misleading counsel of those whose interests don’t align with his own.”