Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, a respected elder statesman and former national security adviser has raised concerns over the deepening political crisis in Rivers State lamenting that the state is now being governed by what he described as “a complete stranger.”
In a video clip shared by News Central TV from 0:01, Sara-Igbe spoke candidly about the rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his political godfather and predecessor, Nyesom Wike. He urged both leaders to put aside their differences and seek a private resolution for the sake of the state’s development.
“Sim and his boss, Wike, had issues. Two of them can lock themselves in the room and resolve this matter. It’s a very simple matter,” Sara-Igbe said. “Rivers State is suffering today. Our economy is suffering today. Before now, projects were being commissioned every month, but for now, a stranger, a complete stranger who is not a Rivers State man is on seat.”
While he did not mention names, his statement appears to refer to individuals allegedly influencing the state’s governance from outside its political landscape.
His remarks echo growing public frustration over the stalled development and governance gridlock caused by the lingering feud between Governor Fubara and Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Rivers State, once known for its fast-paced infrastructural development under Wike & Fubara has seen a slowdown in capital projects amid the ongoing political struggle. Observers say the impasse threatens not just local governance but the broader economic stability of the region.
Sara-Igbe’s call for reconciliation has been welcomed by civic groups, who see dialogue between the two leaders as crucial to restoring peace and progress in the oil-rich state.
