Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara has stated that he would not let political differences hinder his duty to the people. Fubara made the remarks on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Okocha Road project in Rumuolumeni, Obio Akpor Local Government Area.

Fubara acknowledged the political tensions between himself and Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and a native of Obio Akpor. Despite their differences, Fubara reaffirmed his dedication to delivering development projects across the state.

“If I were an evil person, I would say, ‘I wouldn’t come here,’ considering the nature and the location of this place. But, because it is our duty in government to provide services, protect lives and property, we have to come to make sure that our people here are happy,” Fubara said during the ceremony.

The governor’s comments come against the backdrop of a prolonged rift with Wike, which began after Fubara assumed office. Despite intervention efforts by President Bola Tinubu, the discord has persisted, leading to political turmoil in the state.

The fallout recently escalated when 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), following an alleged attempt to bomb the state House of Assembly complex.

Wike, a former chairman of Obio Akpor LGA from 1999 to 2007, played a key role in Fubara’s rise to power, but the relationship soured soon after Fubara took office.

“Politics is about service, irrespective of loyalties or allegiances,” Fubara added, reiterating his administration’s focus on improving infrastructure and ensuring the welfare of all residents.