Political Battles Will Shape You Into a General, Jonathan Advises Fubara

Former President Goodluck Jonathan encourages Governor Siminalayi Fubara to embrace political challenges, stating they are essential for building resilience and leadership.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan mentioned that while leaders often encounter opposition, the political conflict targeting Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara will ultimately help him become a “general in politics.”

This occurred when Fubara accepted the chieftaincy title of Dike Oha 1 of Etche land, conferred upon him by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers. He remarked that this honor signifies public recognition from the core communities of both Etche and Ikwerre nations, affirming his strong support among their people.

The pair addressed the gathering at the inaugural Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition in Nihi Community, located within Etche Local Government Area. This event occurred on Sunday as part of the celebration marking a decade since Eze Nwala’s coronation as Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo-Umuselem in Etche.

The ex-president, who was also honored with the traditional title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche, urged the people of Rivers to continue supporting the governor.

I understand that you’re facing challenges, Fubara. During times like these, I tend to stay quiet because there are certain things I’d rather not say.

This is your first time holding a high political position. You’ll face many challenges, but remember that no one becomes a general without fighting battles.

He said, “The challenges you’re facing now are preparing you to become a leader in politics. With your full dedication and the support I’ve witnessed from the people of Rivers State, God will undoubtedly guide you through.”

He stressed the important role that the state plays in the Niger Delta region and cautioned that any adverse developments there would ultimately affect the entire country.

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We seek a peaceful Rivers State since it sits at the heart of the Niger Delta. I often emphasize that causing significant disruption in Rivers State leads to a crisis in the entire Niger Delta, which is detrimental to our national economy.

We desire a peaceful Rivers State where the governor can work calmly and without interference. Once their term concludes, another individual will assume responsibility.

“In political office, there are fixed terms. Therefore, we shouldn’t overly stress about any particular position. Let those currently serving carry out their responsibilities; once their term ends, anything is possible,” Jonathan commented.

The former president praised the monarch for his achievements over his 10-year reign and acknowledged the dedication of the Etche people to farming, which has established their area as the state’s food basket.

In his statement, Fubara expressed joy at receiving the chieftaincy title and added that his administration would keep delivering projects and social services to enhance people’s quality of life.

He announced that his administration has granted contracts for the road reconstruction in the Egwi, Afara, and Mba communities within Etche.

For today, I want to assure you that your support is greatly appreciated. In return, we will continue doing our best to prove those who doubt your decision wrong and highlight the value of your backing us.

I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Jonathan, our father, for honoring us with his presence at this event. His attendance is not solely because of his closeness to the celebrant; it reflects his truly simple nature and deep belief in humanity as the most invaluable gift one can offer others. By joining us today with the Etche community, he demonstrates remarkable humility. Thank you so much for being here.

The governor said, “He has supported me through the most challenging time of our administration. Therefore, I am happy to meet him, welcome him, and share in this honor.”

In his speech of gratitude, the monarch mentioned that his time on the throne has been marked by numerous significant milestones, including fostering physical development in Etche land.