Tonye Princewill, a former Labour Party governorship candidate in Rivers State, has urged the current Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to let Governor Siminalayi Fubara govern without obstruction.
According to The Sun, he reminded Wike of the considerable support he enjoyed during his own time as Rivers State governor and pointed out that Fubara is now receiving even greater backing from the people.
Princewill emphasized the importance of allowing the sitting governor to execute his duties without interference.
He stressed that during Wike's tenure as governor, he was given the necessary space to implement his policies and govern effectively.
In the same spirit, he called on Wike to extend the same courtesy to Fubara, enabling him to lead the state and fulfill his responsibilities to the people of Rivers State.
Highlighting the extensive cultural support Wike received, Princewill noted that Fubara is now experiencing an even stronger level of backing from the community.
This support, according to Princewill, is crucial for the effective governance of the state and should not be undermined by any form of interference.
Princewill also addressed potential concerns regarding any errors or legal violations that may occur during Fubara's tenure.
He argued that there are appropriate constitutional mechanisms in place to handle such issues.
Rather than resorting to interference or obstruction, he suggested that any grievances or legal matters should be resolved through these established processes. This approach, he believes, would ensure the rule of law is upheld and allow the governor to focus on his work.
By drawing parallels between Wike's tenure and Fubara's current administration, Princewill aimed to highlight the need for consistency in political practices.
He underscored that just as Wike was allowed to govern freely, Fubara should be granted the same opportunity to lead without unnecessary hindrances.
Princewill said, "We have gone past ethnic lines. The support in either camp is across all ethnic lines. Wike enjoyed cross-cultural support when he was Governor and now Governor Sim is enjoying even greater support across all lines, now that he's on the seat.
"We have made it very clear to the FCT Minister (Wike). Leave our son to work just like we left you to work during your tenure.
"Rivers State is the treasure base of the Nation. Do not play with the goose that lays the golden egg. If he has erred, it is a different thing. If he has broken the law, there are ways and means to deal with that.''