Fubara: It’s A Shame That A Man Entrusted With Leadership Can Turn, Throw People Under Bus-Nwibubasa

Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship aspirant in Rivers State, has criticised Governor Siminalayi Fubara, saying it is unfortunate that a leader entrusted with the hopes of the people could abandon the principles he once publicly defended.

Speaking during an interview with Arise News, Nwibubasa reacted to Fubara’s recent comments on his political position, his reconciliation with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, his decision not to seek a second term, and his endorsement of Kingsley Chinda as his preferred successor.

Nwibubasa said he was not surprised by the governor’s remarks but admitted he was disappointed, adding that many Rivers residents felt the same way. According to him, the governor’s actions had become predictable during the period of emergency rule in the state.

He maintained that he had consistently argued that Fubara’s decision to negotiate with Wike, later announce a reconciliation, and return political control to his former political benefactor amounted to a surrender rather than a genuine settlement of the crisis.

The ADC governorship hopeful further described the governor’s actions as a prolonged deception, alleging that Fubara had disappointed not only his supporters but also the people of Rivers State. He recalled that in his inaugural speech, the governor had presented himself as someone determined to liberate the state from Wike’s political influence, accusing the former governor of treating Rivers State as though it were his personal estate.

Nwibubasa also recalled that Fubara had promised never to abandon the people of Rivers State and had vowed to defend the state’s interests, even at the risk of his own life. He expressed disappointment that the governor was now telling his remaining supporters that he had returned to his political family and that anyone dissatisfied with his decision was free to chart a different course.

In his words, “But this is the same man coming to tell probably a few of his supporters that has hung on that, ‘Oh, I’ve gone back to my family, and now you can find your way if you are not comfortable with my decision.’”

He added, “It is a shame that a man upon whom leadership was entrusted can, in a moment of time, turn 360 degrees, throwing the people under the bus, letting the people understand that, at the end, everything that you once said you stood for and was fighting against, you are back in the same place.”