Ibrahim Manga, the interim national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has revealed that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara declined the opportunity to take charge of the state’s political structure. According to Manga, Fubara’s refusal was a missed opportunity offered by the party, a situation he described as unprecedented.
Speaking on the matter, Manga said, “The kind of opportunity given to Fubara by this party is the sort that you never imagine exists from any political party to any of its members, not even a governor or a president. It’s the kind of chance you wouldn’t believe anyone could enjoy, regardless of their status, even a former president.”
Manga explained that despite repeated offers and chances for Fubara to assume leadership in the state, the governor refused. Fubara reportedly insisted that he couldn’t take decisions as long as former governor Nyesom Wike remained active in the political scene. Manga claimed this hesitation was the root of the ongoing issues within the Rivers PDP.
“He was the first person to meet with this NWC when they asked for the replacement of the state’s PDP chairman,” Manga stated. “He said, ‘No, no, no,’ no one should call him. They should call ‘oga in Abuja,’ and he would accept whoever ‘oga’ appoints. This was the beginning of the problem.”
Manga further disclosed that Fubara and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed could face disciplinary measures for alleged anti-party activities during the Rivers LGA elections. The accusations revolve around the governors’ involvement in events that seemingly benefited opposition parties.
“This is a clear case of anti-party conduct on the part of the governor, and we will address it when the time comes,” Manga said. He criticized the PDP Governors’ Forum chairman, who attended the inauguration of local government officials, none of whom were from the PDP, describing the situation as inappropriate for party loyalty.
Manga emphasized that while the party is cautious in applying disciplinary actions, the governors’ actions could not be overlooked. “You would soon realize that you have punished all the members of the party, leaving no one behind. But we must address these actions that undermine the PDP,” he added.
