Fubara: “What I Did in One Year Is What They Did in Eight”

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has spoken out against critics, asserting that his administration’s achievements in just one year rival those made over the course of eight years by past governments. He made these bold statements during an interdenominational Thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Port Harcourt, as part of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebrations.

Fubara’s claim — “What I did in one year is what they did in eight years” — was directed at detractors who have expressed frustration over his rapid progress. His remarks come amidst rising tensions within the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Much of the conflict centers around a power struggle between Governor Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

Fubara’s assertion that “What I did in one year is what they did in eight years” directly responds to Wike’s recent criticisms. The ongoing discord between the two leaders has intensified, with Wike mocking Fubara’s allies for their support of the All Peoples Party (APP) in the upcoming local government elections on October 5. Wike, a significant figure in Rivers State politics, has become increasingly vocal, but Fubara is holding firm.

Addressing the public during the service, Fubara emphasized that his government’s efforts are focused on benefiting the entire state, not just a select group. He highlighted the swift completion of several key projects under his leadership, projects that he believes had stalled under the previous administration.

In his defense, Fubara pointed to major infrastructural milestones. He emphasized his role in securing a N200 billion loan from Zenith Bank to finance the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, a vital infrastructure initiative. “It is Fubara that signed the paper to borrow from Zenith Bank the N200 billion for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road. So, it is my project,” he stated firmly.

Additionally, Fubara referenced the ongoing construction of the Trans-Kalabari Road, a crucial development project that had seen little progress during Wike’s administration. He revealed that his administration is overseeing the entire span of the project, which is valued at N225 billion and is funded without additional borrowing.

To further underline his progress, Fubara announced the construction of a new general hospital, which will include a psychiatric facility, marking his government’s commitment to addressing the community’s health needs.

As Rivers State gears up for the upcoming local government elections, Fubara’s statement — “What I did in one year is what they did in eight years” — is certain to fuel ongoing political debates. His comments reflect a growing divide within the PDP, as the clash between him and Wike continues to shape the political narrative. For now, Fubara remains focused on pushing his administration’s agenda, with transparency and development at the forefront.

Governor Fubara’s resolve to prove his critics wrong and demonstrate tangible progress sets the tone for a highly charged political season in Rivers State.