War Without End in Rivers

The feud between former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, and the incumbent, Siminalayi Fubara, feels like a story from a children’s book. It is believed to have begun over control of political power in the state. Yet, even though the conflict is as old as Fubara’s tenure, it shows no signs of ending soon.

At first, the feud seemed laughable, like a bad joke. Wike, who had been governor, refused to loosen his grip on the state’s affairs. Fubara, eager to establish himself, resisted Wike’s attempts to overshadow his administration.

Then, it was reported that Fubara knelt to beg Wike for peace, a report that the latter has now walloped as a lie. Nevertheless, the report of such a level of submission is itself strange in a battle for power. It goes to show how the Rivers State government has become a stage where pride and power struggles play out in the open.

The most recent chapter of this saga was the controversial local government elections. Wike claimed Fubara secretly sponsored an opposition party. Fubara denied the accusation, but the drama was already brewing in full force.

The effects of their rift are clear, with Rivers State becoming a playground for political games. Tensions are high, and decisions that should benefit the people are delayed. It’s as if the state has been dragged into a never-ending tug-of-war.

As this power struggle continues, one can’t help but question the priorities of these leaders. Will Rivers State, rich in oil and potential, continue to struggle under the weight of the egos of its leaders? What kind of future can its people expect when their leaders are more focused on winning personal battles than addressing their concerns?

Ultimately, the Wike-Fubara feud gives intending politicians a front-row seat to a show on how power corrupts. Both men see themselves as political messiahs, yet their inability to reconcile only harms the state they claim to love. The people, as always, are left wondering when this bitter war will end.