As Political Turmoil Grips Rivers State, Suspended Governor Fubara Praises Wike’s Doctorate Award at UNIPORT Convocation

 

The University of Port Harcourt on Saturday celebrated its golden jubilee and 35th convocation ceremony with grandeur, but the highlight of the day came with the conferment of an honorary Doctor of Science degree on the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The ceremony, held at the university’s convocation arena in Port Harcourt, attracted notable dignitaries from across the nation.

Wike, a former two-term governor of Rivers State and a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, was recognized for his significant contributions to governance and national development. The honorary doctorate is seen as both a personal achievement and a recognition of his longstanding service to the state and the country.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara, despite the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State that has pitted him at odds with Wike in recent months, extended a congratulatory message to the former governor. The message, seen by many as a surprising gesture amidst their strained relationship, praised Wike’s accomplishments and lauded the university’s decision to honor him.

Fubara emphasized that the award was “well-deserved,” noting that Wike’s leadership had left a visible mark during his time as governor and now as a federal minister. “This distinguished recognition is not only a celebration of your illustrious accomplishments, but a testament to your contributions to education, governance, and the betterment of society,” the statement read.

The governor highlighted Wike’s tenure as a period of notable transformation, particularly in infrastructural development and public sector reforms, adding that such contributions restored a sense of faith in leadership among the people. He further stated that the decision by Wike’s alma mater to confer the honorary title was fitting and timely.

Observers have interpreted the message as an olive branch from Fubara, considering the ongoing tensions that have destabilized the political atmosphere in the state for months.

During the convocation, university officials commended Wike for his unwavering commitment to development and education, stressing that his track record as both governor and minister reflects a legacy worthy of academic recognition.

The backdrop to this celebratory event remains the complicated political standoff in Rivers State. A crisis erupted earlier this year, escalating tensions between Governor Fubara and Wike, who remains an influential political force in the state. The disagreement, initially rooted in governance issues and control over state structures, grew into a full-blown political crisis that attracted national attention.

On March 18, President Bola Tinubu intervened by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the deteriorating political situation. In an unprecedented move, both Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for six months. The federal government cited the need for stability and peace as the main reason for the intervention.

Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff, was appointed as the sole administrator of the state during the suspension period. His mandate was to oversee the functions of the state and ensure that peace was restored.

Despite the suspension, on June 26, both Wike and Fubara attended a meeting with President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. Alongside members of the State Assembly, they publicly pledged to work towards peace and stability in Rivers. The meeting was seen as a turning point, though many remain skeptical about how long the truce will hold.

Analysts suggest that Fubara’s congratulatory message to Wike might be part of a broader reconciliation strategy encouraged by the presidency. Others argue it could be a political move to project maturity and calm amidst deep divisions.

The honorary doctorate from UNIPORT not only reaffirms Wike’s standing as a major political figure but also subtly reshapes the narrative surrounding his legacy. As Rivers State navigates its way through a sensitive transition period, gestures like Fubara’s message may play a key role in reducing political tension.

As the state awaits further developments, especially regarding the suspension and future governance structure, the message from the convocation ceremony was clear: recognition for service, regardless of political conflict, remains a cornerstone of societal progress.