Former president of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, Sunday, said though antagonism is a common experience that leaders face, the political war staged against the Rivers state governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, will eventually make him emerge as a General in politics.
This is even as Governor Fubara has accepted the chieftaincy title: Dike Oha 1 of Etche land, bestowed on him by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers, saying it is now public acknowledge from the heart of Etche and Ikwerre nations that he enjoys strong support of the people.
Fubara made the remark at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition held at Nihi Community in Etche local government area of the state.
The event, which was also attended by the former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, was used to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the coronation of His Royal Highness, Eze Ken O. Nwala as the Onye Ishi Agwuru 111 of Ulakwo-Umuselem in Etche.
The former president was also conferred with the traditional title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche land.
Governor Fubara expressed delight over the recognition and the chieftaincy title and said his administration will continue to provide projects and social services that will improve the standard of living of the people.
He stated that his administration has awarded contract for the reconstruction of roads in Egwi, Afara and Mba communities in Etche.
Governor Fubara urged the people to expect more government attention because of their support, and assured that he will not disappoint them.
“For my teeming supporters, I know you are happy I am here. Let me wave the title, the Dike Oha 1 to you. I receive this honour on behalf of my family and the good people of Rivers state with all my heart, and I want to thank you and assure you that we will not disappoint you. We will continue to do our best to better the lives of our people.
“You are aware that we just recently awarded the roads in Afara, Egwi and Mba communities. You know the importance of these roads. We have not just awarded them, we will make sure that we see to the completion of those roads. I can assure you that in the next few months, we will be coming here to commission that project. That is one among other things that we will do,” he said.
Governor Fubara also stated: “But for today, I want to assure you, your support is well appreciated, and in return, we will continue to do our best to lift up your faces before the people who believe that you made mistake in supporting us.”
Speaking on the former president, Governor Fubara said: “Let me thank our father (Dr Jonathan) for coming to grace this occasion. It is not just for the celebrant being close to him.”
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