Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has taken a bold stance against his former mentor and predecessor, Nyesom Wike, according to recent reports.
Governor Fubara reportedly advised Wike to stop boasting and instead show respect to those who helped shape his political career, particularly former Governor Peter Odili.
The ongoing political feud between Fubara and Wike has taken a new dimension with this latest development, as reported by ThisDayLive.
Fubara's comments come in the wake of Odili's public endorsement of him as the new political leader of Rivers State, dealing a significant blow to Wike's influence in the region.
According to sources close to the governor, Fubara reminded Wike that his rise to power was largely due to the support he received from Odili and other political figures in the state.
"Governor Fubara believes it's time for Wike to acknowledge those who paved the way for his success," an insider revealed.
The governor's statement has sparked intense debate among political observers in Rivers State and beyond.
Many see it as a clear sign that Fubara is determined to assert his authority and break free from Wike's political shadow.
The relationship between Fubara and Wike has been strained since the former took office, with both men locked in a power struggle for control of the state's political machinery.
Wike, who is currently serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has been accused of trying to maintain his grip on Rivers State politics despite no longer being in office.
However, Fubara's recent moves, backed by Odili's endorsement, suggest a significant shift in the balance of power.
Peter Odili, a respected elder statesman in Rivers politics, publicly declared Fubara as the state's political leader during a recent event.
"Having secured electoral victory through the ballots and the court, Governor Fubara is now the undisputed political leader of our great state," Odili was quoted as saying.
This endorsement from Odili has been seen as a major boost for Fubara and a setback for Wike's ambitions.
Political analysts believe that Odili's support could help Fubara consolidate his position and win over more allies in the state.
The governor has been making efforts to reach out to key stakeholders and build his own support base since taking office.
Reports suggest that Fubara has been successful in attracting support from various quarters, including some former Wike loyalists.