Key points 

• Challenges made Fubara a stronger political leader, Jonathan said.
• The former governor, Wike, is still pulling weight against Fubara.
• Rivers people must support Fubara for peace and development says Jonathan.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has enjoyed the backing of former President Goodluck Jonathan who said the governor will become a ‘General’ in politics when he eventually surmount the political challenges he is currently battling.

The 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition in Etche Local Government Area held Sunday, with Jonathan making the comments.

Also at the event were Fubara and celebration of the 10th Anniversary Coronation of Eze Ken O. Nwala as Onye Ishi Agwuru 111 of Ulakwo-Umuselem.

Jonathan understands the difficult political terrain Fubara is treading, especially given the ongoing spat with his predecessor Nyesom Wike.

Under intense pressure since last year, Fubara has survived an impeachment plot and a state assembly riven with factions, which has resulted in violence repeatedly.

Though these trials are tough, Jonathan said these would make him a stronger leader and finally win the governor position.

Future Leadership is Politically War Curved

Jonathan said that the journey in becoming a successful leader involves facing political adversity.

“No one becomes a General without fighting wars,” he said, adding Fubara’s current struggle will grow him politically.

In the same vein he urged Rivers State residents to continue supporting Fubara and to put in their best for the sustenance of lasting peace and development of the state.

Jonathan also spoke of Rivers’ strategic importance: If instability breaks out in Rivers, there is likely to be a domino effect on the entire country.

But he stressed the state is critical both to the entire Niger Delta region and to Nigeria’s overall economy.

“Let me make it clear, we want a peaceful Rivers State because we want stability, that is a window of progress in the country,” Jonathan said.

The link Between Political Stability and Rivers State

According to Fubara, he also commended Jonathan for his continued support during the period during the period of political crisis.

The recognition and the chieftain title he got at the occasion, he acknowledged and also pledged to continue to work to improve the standard of living of the people of Rivers State.

He said he remained committed to projects and social services to benefit the people of the state in spite of the current crisis.

With his insurrection against his own political camp, Fubara will need the resilience that Jonathan’s endorsement connotes.

Jonathan’s words amounted to a reminder that, as the process that shapes strong leaders, many political battles are a part of it.