Goodluck Jonathan charges Fubara on obligations of governance

Former president of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan has tasked River State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara to remain dedicated to the obligations of governance without being distracted, saying that his current political experience is turning him into a better leader.

Speaking at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition held at Nihi Community in Etche Local Government Area of the state, Jonathan urged the governor to remain unperturbed over the political antagonism against his administration, adding that the crisis in Rivers State will make him a better politician.

The event also commemorates the 10th Anniversary of the Coronation of His Royal Highness, Eze Ken O. Nwala as the Onye Ishi Agwuru 111 of Ulakwo-Umuselem in Etche while Governor Fubara was conferred with Dike Oha 1 of Etche land title by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers.

Jonathan also pleaded with Rivers people to support Governor Fubara while making sure that the State remains peaceful to engender enduring development.

“I know you are going through challenges

“But this is the first time you are holding top political office. You will pass through a lot. And just know that nobody becomes a General without fighting wars. So, whatever challenges you are facing now is preparing you to be a General in politics. And with your total commitment and the support I have seen from the people of Rivers State, God will surely see you through.” Jonathan said.

Dr Jonathan emphasised the critical position that Rivers State occupies and warned that whatever happens to it negatively will impact the entire country in the long run.

“We want a peaceful Rivers State because it is the centre of the Niger Delta. If we create serious perturbation in Rivers State, we are creating a crisis in the Niger Delta, which is not good for our economy as a nation.

“We want a peaceful Rivers State.

“In political office, we have tenures but we don’t need to kill ourselves over any political office. Allow those who are there to do their work, and after that, anything can happen.”

In his response, Governor Fubara expressed delight over the chieftaincy title and assured that his administration will continue to provide projects and social services that will improve the standard of living of the people.

He stated that his administration has awarded contracts for the reconstruction of roads in Egwi, Afara, and Mba communities in Etche.

“For my teeming supporters, I know you are happy I am here. Let me wave the title, the Dike Oha 1 to you. I receive this honour on behalf of my family and the good people of Rivers State with all my heart, and I want to thank you and assure you that we will not disappoint you. We will continue to do our best to better the lives of our people.

“You are aware that we just recently awarded the roads in Afara, Egwi, and Mba communities, we will make sure that we see to the completion of those roads. I can assure you that in the next few months, we will be coming here to commission that project.

Governor Fubara, who commended Eze Nwala for serving his people diligently for 10 years now, urged him to always put God first in everything so that he can truly accomplish more for the people.