Rivers State PDP Slam Senate President Akpabio Over Governorship Succession Comments
In the bustling heart of Rivers State, the political atmosphere is as charged as ever, following recent comments by Senate President Godswil Akpabio that have sparked both outcry and debate among political circles. At the center of this storm is the question of succession for Governor Siminialayi Fubara, a topic that has thrust the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state into a defensive stance against what they perceive as unwelcome interference.
During a notable event in Port Harcourt, Akpabio suggested that Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, should consider an individual from the Ogoni community as the next governor. This proposal, intended or not, has ruffled feathers within the PDP, with the party’s publicity secretary, Tambari Sydney Gbara, labeling the timing of such comments as provocative. Gbara articulated the party’s support for an Ogoni governor but criticized the Senate President for diverting attention from more pressing national concerns such as the economic challenges facing the country and the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Responses and Repercussions
The reaction from the PDP has been swift and pointed, with Gbara urging the people of Rivers to disregard Akpabio’s statements and continue their support for Governor Fubara’s administration. The critique is not isolated; it echoes sentiments from other quarters, such as the Ekid Nation Interest Forum in Eket, which has previously accused Akpabio of deceit and unfulfilled promises during his tenure as Governor. This current controversy adds another layer to Akpabio’s complex political narrative, one that includes a shift from supporting President Goodluck Jonathan to criticizing the economic policies under President Buhari and former Central Bank Governor Emefiele.
Akpabio’s political journey is marked by his adaptability and survival through Nigeria’s turbulent political waters. From his tenure as Governor to his current role as Senate President, Akpabio has been a figure of both admiration and controversy. His recent remarks in Rivers State spotlight the delicate balance of political influence and the potential consequences of its misuse. While some view his suggestions as a genuine attempt to foster inclusivity, others see them as an unwarranted intrusion into state politics, especially given the PDP’s stance and the ongoing support and development projects in Bori, the Ogoni headquarters, by Governor Fubara’s administration.
The political landscape of Rivers State, and indeed Nigeria as a whole, remains a complex tapestry of ambitions, allegiances, and aspirations. As the debate over Akpabio’s comments continues, it serves as a reminder of the intricate dance of democracy, where every word and action can tip the scales in unforeseen ways.
