Woke Slams Governor Fubara Over Vindictive Governance and Political Hypocrisy
PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: The recent remarks by Governor Sir Siminilayi Fubara during project launches in Ahoada and Etche have sparked widespread outrage across Rivers State, with critics accusing him of vindictive governance and political immaturity. Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), has openly rebuked the Governor for his actions, calling them a betrayal of those who supported his rise to power.
“To publicly denigrate those who stood by you is not just shortsighted; it’s a betrayal,” Woke said, describing the Governor’s comments as a troubling display of executive impunity. He criticized Fubara’s decision to cancel contracts with those he labeled as “enemies,” despite their proven competence. “To cancel projects not based on performance, but on petty political squabbles, sets a dangerous precedent,” Woke argued.
Woke also condemned Fubara’s dismissal of vital infrastructure projects, specifically mocking the Governor’s remarks about a road in Omuma Local Government Area, which he derisively called a “Farm Road that leads to nowhere.” Countering this claim, Woke said, “Such rhetoric is unbecoming of a Chief Executive. Essential infrastructure like that road connects farmers to markets and drives economic activity. Mocking it while promising new contracts for similar projects is hypocrisy draped in ignorance.”
The Governor’s recent remarks about Nigerian youths further fueled Woke’s criticism. Referring to a young citizen as a “Data boy” for raising concerns about poor road quality, Fubara revealed a disconnect from the voices of the next generation, Woke asserted. “Dismissing young citizens trying to hold leadership accountable shows a profound lack of respect. Leaders should listen, engage, and learn from these voices, not ridicule them.”
Woke also took aim at Fubara’s lack of acknowledgment for the work of his predecessor, Chief Barrister Nyesom Wike. “To ridicule Wike’s contributions, particularly when they provide substantial benefits to the community, is both factually incorrect and disingenuous,” Woke said. He emphasized that Fubara’s promise of new infrastructure rings hollow when paired with mockery of existing projects that enhance the lives of Rivers residents.
Woke went on to caution that failing to execute projects in Wike’s community, allegedly due to personal grievances, reflects insidious tendencies unfit for public service. “We were deceived by his pretentious disposition as Accountant General, a role where he was elevated by Wike above his peers,” Woke remarked.
Offering advice to the Governor, Woke urged him to prioritize maturity and collaboration in leadership. “Leadership is not about titles but about understanding the weight of decisions and fostering unity. Only through prudent governance can the people’s interests be truly represented,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Woke called on Fubara to learn from past leaders and foster enduring relationships. “The people look to their leaders for integrity and wisdom. A wise leader understands that mutual respect and collaboration are essential for effective governance,” he said.
In a final reflection, Woke expressed sympathy for the Governor’s challenges in navigating leadership but reminded him of the responsibilities that come with the office. “Leadership demands understanding the nuances of governance. Only when a child washes his hands well is he fit to dine with elders. Governor Fubara must take stock of his actions and learn from the speed bumps on his journey.”
