Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has approved the construction of a modern psychiatric hospital in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, the hometown of his estranged political mentor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The decision comes amid a growing political feud between Fubara and Wike over control of Rivers State.
Tensions between the two escalated after Wike accused Fubara of betraying those who helped him rise to power. Speaking at a reception by the Ijaw Peoples Assembly in Port Harcourt, Wike warned that when the time was right, he would teach Fubara and his supporters a political lesson. He criticized the current leadership in Rivers and expressed confidence in his own political strength.
In response, Governor Fubara, speaking during an Inter-denominational Church Thanksgiving Service marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, highlighted his administration’s achievements since taking office. He contrasted his work over the past year with Wike’s eight-year tenure, claiming that he had made more significant progress in a shorter time.
Fubara cited major projects his administration has undertaken, including signing a N200 billion loan from Zenith Bank for the Port Harcourt Ring Road construction and awarding a N225 billion contract for the Trans-Kalabari Road. Additionally, he announced the construction of a General Hospital and a Psychiatric Hospital in Obio-Akpor, hinting that his political opponents might soon need psychiatric care due to their obsession with challenging his administration.
The governor called for unity and urged his critics to remain silent, emphasizing that his actions are for the benefit of Rivers State, not personal gain. He assured the public that all projects initiated by his administration would be completed, avoiding incomplete projects that only serve for political show.
Fubara concluded by urging his opponents to act with humility and protect the progress that has been made in the state, rather than attempting to undermine it.
