GOVERNOR FUBARA APPROVES PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL IN NYESOM WINE'S LOCAL GOVERNMENT, SAYS 'THEY WILL NEED IT SOON'

The Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has sanctioned the establishment of a state-of-the-art psychiatric facility in the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area—an area from which Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Fubara’s estranged political mentor, originates. Wike, who hails from Rumuepirikom in the Obio-Akpor area, has been embroiled in a power struggle with Fubara for control of Rivers State. Wike has accused Fubara of betraying those who facilitated his ascent to power. During a reception organized by the Ijaw Peoples Assembly in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike proclaimed that he would impart a "big lesson" to Fubara and his followers when the opportune moment arrives. Wike articulated, “In Rivers, they are considering APP. It's not about money. Money alone doesn't win. If there’s no capacity, there’s no capacity. We've defeated them before and when the opportunity arises, we'll do it again. When it's time for politics, we’ll show them what real politics is.” Although the political tension persists, the approval of the psychiatric hospital—because of its potential impact—marks a significant development in the ongoing rivalry. However, Fubara's recent decision may be interpreted as a strategic move within the broader context of their conflict. This situation unfolds as both leaders navigate the intricate dynamics of power and influence in Rivers State.

However, speaking at an inter-denominational church service for Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Port Harcourt on Sunday, Fubara responded, stating that his accomplishments in one year outweighed what his opponents achieved in eight. He reminded critics of his achievements, such as borrowing N200 billion for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road and awarding the Trans-Kalabari Road project, which his predecessors couldn’t complete. “It’s Fubara that’s building a general hospital and I’ve included a psychiatric hospital because they will need it soon,” Fubara said. He went on to emphasize that his actions in office are solely for the benefit of the people of Rivers State, with no personal business interests involved. Fubara dismissed his critics as making noise without substance, urging them to respect the opportunities they’ve been given and serve with humility. He affirmed that his administration is focused on delivering real results, not mere ceremonies and that every project initiated would be completed and put to public use.

In addressing the congregation at St. Paul's Cathedral (during the inter-denominational service to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day), Fubara articulated a pointed response to his critics. He asserted that his one-year tenure has yielded more significant accomplishments than what his adversaries managed over an eight-year span. Specifically, Fubara highlighted his strategic initiatives: borrowing N200 billion for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road and awarding the Trans-Kalabari Road project. Projects his predecessors failed to complete. "It’s Fubara that’s building a general hospital and I’ve included a psychiatric hospital because they will need it soon," he noted. This declaration underscores his commitment to enhancing public healthcare infrastructure—although it was delivered with a hint of sarcasm.

Fubara emphasized that his administrative actions are driven by a singular focus: the welfare of Rivers State's citizens (with no personal business interests involved). He dismissed his critics, characterizing their complaints as mere noise devoid of substance. In urging them to respect their opportunities and serve with humility, Fubara highlighted the importance of responsible governance. He affirmed that his administration is dedicated to delivering tangible results rather than engaging in ceremonial activities. Every project initiated, he assured, would be completed and made available for public use.

He concluded by urging his supporters to safeguard the progress made thus far (and to avoid being distracted by those seeking to disrupt it). This is crucial because the advancements achieved are significant; however, there are forces at play—intent on causing disruption. Although maintaining focus is challenging, it remains essential: but the commitment to these principles must remain unwavering.