Governorship aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Ambassador Blessing Fubara, has dismissed allegations of a secret political arrangement with former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, insisting that his calls for reconciliation should not be misconstrued as political compromise.
Fubara’s clarification followed claims by the Rivers Youth Media Team that his recent remarks advocating reconciliation signalled a covert agreement with the former governor.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NDC chieftain categorically denied the allegations, stressing that there was no pact, negotiation or understanding with Chief Wike or any other political figure aimed at undermining the independence of his party or the interests of Rivers people.
“Let me state clearly and unequivocally: there is no deal, no pact, no negotiation, and no agreement between me and Chief Nyesom Wike or any other political figure aimed at compromising the independence of the National Democratic Congress or the mandate of Rivers people,” he stated.
Fubara said Rivers State had endured years of political instability, institutional disputes, economic stagnation and deep social divisions, arguing that ordinary citizens have borne the greatest consequences of prolonged political conflicts.
According to him, leaders have a responsibility to prioritise constructive engagement over hostility and political confrontation.
“My position remains simple and consistent. Rivers State has suffered enough from prolonged political turbulence, institutional conflicts, economic stagnation, and the bitter divisions that have torn apart our social fabric. The ordinary people bear the greatest burden when leaders choose perpetual warfare over constructive engagement,” he said.
The governorship aspirant maintained that reconciliation should not be interpreted as weakness or endorsement of political opponents, emphasising that dialogue remains an essential tool for fostering peace and development.
“Reconciliation does not mean surrender. Dialogue does not mean endorsement. Peace does not mean compromise of principles,” he declared.
Drawing a historical parallel, Fubara cited the example of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who pursued reconciliation after years of imprisonment in order to promote national healing and unity.
“Genuine leadership requires the courage to build bridges where others prefer to build walls,” he added.
Fubara pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would engage all relevant stakeholders regardless of political affiliation, including former public office holders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the private sector, youth groups, women, labour unions and opposition parties.
He said such engagement would be driven solely by the need to promote peace, security, stability and economic recovery in Rivers State.
The NDC aspirant accused critics of either misunderstanding or deliberately misrepresenting his position for political advantage, insisting that the people of Rivers State deserve issue-based campaigns rather than what he described as fearmongering and conspiracy theories.
“Those attempting to interpret my commitment to reconciliation as evidence of secret deals are either misunderstanding my position or deliberately distorting it for political advantage,” he said.
Fubara further reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals of the NDC, stating that the party was established to provide transparent, accountable and people-centred leadership.
“The NDC was founded to offer credible, transparent, and people-centred leadership. Its ideals cannot be bought, rented, hijacked, or traded away by anyone,” he stated.
He also called on political actors and young people across the state to moderate public discourse and embrace peaceful democratic engagement ahead of future elections.
“Elections should be contests of ideas and competence, not instruments for deepening hatred and division,” he said.
The governorship hopeful urged citizens to place the interests of Rivers State above partisan considerations and personal ambitions, stressing the need to focus on economic growth, job creation, improved healthcare, quality education and institutional development.
“The task before us is greater than any individual. It is about restoring investor confidence, creating jobs for our young people, improving education and healthcare, strengthening our institutions, and rebuilding trust in governance,” he noted.
Concluding the statement, Fubara reiterated his commitment to the people of Rivers State and maintained that reconciliation and statesmanship remain essential ingredients for lasting progress.
“Peace is not weakness. Reconciliation is not betrayal. Statesmanship is not compromise. It is the path to healing and progress,” he said.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity in Rivers State as parties and aspirants intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, against the backdrop of continuing debates over political alliances, governance and the future direction of the state.
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