Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke, has expressed support for former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili’s decision to proclaim Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the political leader of the state.
Nwuke defended Odili’s proclamation by pointing out that both the Nigerian constitution and the constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) recognize governors as the leaders of their respective states.
Speaking with LEADERSHIP in Port Harcourt, Nwuke emphasized that Odili’s declaration not only demonstrates humility but also reflects his understanding of the dynamics of power.
“The significance lies in the fact that it comes from one of the most prominent governors of Rivers State since the creation of Bayelsa State. Peter Odili led Rivers State. Odili comprehends the transient nature of power. He recognizes that while he held the office of governor, he was the leader.
“Every governor who has come and gone has been a leader in their own right. So, for such a seasoned politician to assess the situation and make such a pronouncement, affirming that regardless of how we perceive it, Fubara is the political leader of Rivers State, it not only demonstrates humility on the part of Dr. Odili but also shows his experience and understanding that power shifts and when it transitions from you, you must allow the one upon whom power is bestowed to lead.
“Moreover, within the PDP, it has consistently been the governor who is acknowledged as the leader, and the PDP constitution does not vest power elsewhere; it resides solely with the governor. This is why PDP governors wield considerable influence.
“Even the constitution designates the governor as the paramount citizen of the state. One cannot be the foremost citizen while someone else exercises the authority of that position.
“Considering precedence, Sim cannot be denied the right to be the leader. Therefore, I believe Dr. Peter Odili was simply adhering to the established norms that place the leadership of the state in the hands of the governor,” the former lawmaker concluded.