Avoid Distractions, Obong Of Calabar Advises Fubara

The Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, has advised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to ignore distractions and concentrate on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

This advice was given during the formal inauguration of the Eze Oha Apara Palace for the Paramount Ruler of Ekinigbo and Eze Oha Apara IV in Rumuigbo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on Thursday.

Addressing Fubara at the event, the monarch urged him to focus on his governance duties amidst the ongoing political tensions in the state, particularly the dispute between Fubara and his former political mentor, Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State. Despite the crisis, the Obong emphasized that Fubara had been legitimately elected as governor.

“I don’t intend to descend into the political arena. However, as a father, I must stand with the truth and show solidarity with you (Fubara) during this turbulent time,” Abasi-Otu said. “You are the executive governor of Rivers State, a mandate freely, willingly, peacefully, and resoundingly given to you by the people of Rivers State. Do not let them distract you.

Shut out the noise, and focus on delivering the dividends of democracy to the generality of the good people of Rivers State, who, combined together, are your employers and your boss.”

The Obong of Calabar also praised Fubara for his positive contribution to the traditional institution and the support he has shown. “You have done well, and I must say, we are proud of you,” he remarked, referring to the palace inauguration as a symbol of goodwill and respect for the traditional institutions.

Governor Fubara responded by stating that his governance would not exclude any community or local government from receiving the benefits of democracy, regardless of political differences. He further stressed that his administration was committed to the development of all parts of the state.

“Like they said, if it were in other cases, I wouldn’t be interested. No, no, no. I don’t play politics that way,” Fubara said. “Whatever we are doing, it is not my personal fund; it is the resources of the state. We should apply it for the betterment of our state.”

The governor also highlighted his administration’s commitment to the development of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, including the construction of an ultra-modern general hospital, an upgraded neuro-psychiatric hospital, and the building of a palace for the Akpor King. He promised to reconstruct the roads leading to the newly inaugurated palace and ensure further development in the community.

In addition, the chairman of the building committee, John Mbata, provided details of the Eze Oha Apara Palace, which includes a main palace with eight bedrooms, a 500-capacity hall, a VIP hall, and guest accommodations.

The event culminated with the conferral of a traditional title on Governor Fubara by the Ikwerre traditional rulers, led by Eze Worlu-Wodo.