Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said though antagonism is a common experience that leaders face, the political war staged against the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, will eventually make him emerge as a General in politics.
Jonathan spoke at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition held at Nihi Community in Etche Local Government Area of the State on Sunday.
The event, which was also attended by Fubara, was used to celebrate 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.
At the event, Fubara was conferred with the chieftaincy title Dike Oha 1 of Etche land, bestowed on him by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers.
Jonathan was also conferred with the traditional title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche land.
In his remarks, Jonathan pleaded with the people of Rivers State to collectively ensure that they continue to support Fubara in order to ensure peace and development in the state.
He urged Fubara not to be perturbed by the political antagonism against his administration but to remain dedicated to the obligations of governance without being distracted, saying that his current political experience was turning him into a better leader.
Fubara has been in a political crisis with his predecessor and estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike, since last year.
Last year, he survived an impeachment plot and the crisis has seen the House of Assembly factionalised, also led to violence on a number of occasions.
Speaking on Sunday, Jonathan said, “I know you 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 a 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 occupies, and warned that whatever happens to it negatively will 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 commended Eze Nwala for the success he has achieved in 10 years on the throne and the commitment of Etche people to farming activities that has stood out the place as the food basket of the state.
In his remarks, Fubara expressed delight over the recognition and the chieftaincy title conferred on him, promising that his administration would continue to provide projects and social services to improve the standard of living of the people.
He thanked Jonathan for his support amid the Rivers political crisis.
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 that I had 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.”