‘Weakness Is a Virtue,’ Fubara Says at Lagos Event

An atmosphere of reflection and political symbolism defined the New Telegraph Award/Dinner Night in Lagos on Friday as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, used the platform to explain the philosophy guiding his leadership amid months of turbulence.

While receiving his Man of the Year award, the governor dedicated the honour to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, a gesture that immediately drew attention given the prolonged political tensions in Rivers State.

Fubara spoke candidly about the pressures that have accompanied his administration, suggesting that his conciliatory posture in the face of conflict had been deliberate rather than imposed. He noted that his approach to the crisis has often been misinterpreted, even as he insisted it was shaped by the broader need to preserve stability.

“Today for me is a very special day, and also special for everyone who has believed in me, and I know for believing in me, you have a share of special pain,” the governor said.

Addressing criticisms surrounding his handling of the political standoff, he maintained that restraint had been central to his strategy.

“Some of these pains, some persons describe them as weakness, while others say it as being strong, but I choose for a lot of reasons to be weak. Weak, because I want peace.

“Weak, because we need to survive. Weak, because I need to also protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” he said.

Fubara added, “Weakness is a virtue. It pays at the right time.”

He made a direct and symbolic dedication of the award to Wike, his predecessor and political benefactor.

“I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it, I also dedicate this award to somebody who also discovered me, not minding the situation, the Honourable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike.

“He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness,” Fubara stated.

The governor’s comments come against the backdrop of recent signs of easing tensions between both leaders following mediation by President Bola Tinubu.