Former president of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, on Sunday, told the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, that he would someday emerge as a general in politics.
Jonathan said though antagonism is a common experience that leaders face, the political war staged against the Rivers governor would eventually make him emerge as political general.
The former president made the assertion at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition held at Nihi Community in Etche Local Government Area of the state.
Jonathan, therefore, pleaded with Rivers people to collectively ensure that they continue to support Fubara while making sure that the state remained peaceful in order to engender enduring development.
He also urged Fubara not to be perturbed over the political antagonism against his administration but to remain dedicated to the obligations of governance without being distracted.
He noted that his current political experience was turning him into a better leader, adding: “I know you (Gov Fubara) are passing through challenges, and at occasions like these, I try to keep quiet. I don’t like to say certain things.
“But this is 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 meeting now is baking you to be a General in politics. And with your total commitment and with the support I have seen from the people of Rivers State, God will surely see you through.”
Jonathan emphasised the critical position that Rivers State occupied, and warned that whatever happened to it negatively would impact on the entire country in the long run.
“We want a peaceful Rivers State, because Rivers State is the centre of the Niger Delta. And I always make it very clear: if we create serious perturbation in Rivers State, we are creating crisis in the Niger Delta, which is not good for our economy as a nation.
“We want a peaceful Rivers State. We want the Governor of Rivers State to be allowed to remain calm and do his work. After he finishes serving, another person will take over.
“In political office, we have tenures. And so, 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.”
The former president, who alongside Fubara, was conferred with a traditional title, commended His Royal Highness, Eze Ken O. Nwala, traditional ruler of Etche for the success he had achieved in 10 years on the throne and the commitment of Etche people to farming that has reckoned the place as the food basket of the state.
Fubara, who expressed delight over the recognition and the chieftaincy title, said his administration would continue to provide projects and social services that would improve the standard of living of the people.
Fubara urged the people to expect more government attention because of their support, and assured them that he would not disappoint them.
To the former president, Fubara said: “Let me thank our father for coming to grace this occasion. It is not just for the celebrant being close to him.
“This goes to show that he is a man who is very simple, who believes that humanity is the most priceless thing you can give to anybody.
“Coming here to celebrate with the Etche people is a sign of humility. So, I want to thank you for coming and to be with us today.
“When I was told that our Daddy (Jonathan) will be coming here, I had to cancel all other programmes to be here to receive him and to honour him.
“He has stood with me in this most difficult period of our administration. So, the little I can do is to come to wait for him, to receive him, and to share in this honour.”
Blessing Ibunge
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