In a recent interview with Arise News FROM 21:25, Segun Sowunmi, a chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), delved into the ongoing political feud between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Sowunmi raised critical questions about the nature of the conflict and the political strategy that led to Fubara’s emergence as governor.
“Rivers, in my opinion, is… have we created a sympathy movement for the victim in such a way that we did not bother to ask ourselves, what did the victim do that they’re beating him?” Sowunmi began, reflecting on the broader implications of the conflict.
Sowunmi’s critique of the situation centered on the questionable political arrangement that brought Fubara to power. “Back to the Siminalayi Fubara/Wike issue, ab initio, I have quarreled with the fact: how do you guys go and create an arrangement that produces a Siminalayi Fubara as Governor through Wike, when Wike was practically fighting everybody to install him?”
Sowunmi expressed frustration over how the relationship between Wike and Fubara deteriorated so quickly. “Why didn’t that relationship get managed?” he asked, highlighting the missed opportunity to ensure a smoother transition of power. According to him, the conflict between the two could have been avoided with better political maneuvering and a clearer plan for maintaining unity.
He further questioned the timing of the fallout, arguing that if a power struggle was inevitable, it would have been wiser for Fubara to secure more support within the Rivers State House of Assembly before engaging in any conflict with Wike. “If you’re going to fight, why would you start a fight before you get a great number of the Assembly members to be on your side?” Sowunmi emphasized, suggesting that Fubara may have entered the political skirmish prematurely, leaving him in a vulnerable position.