Fubara Approves Psychiatric Hospital In Wike’s Hometown, Says ‘They’ll Need It Soon

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has approved the construction of a modern psychiatric hospital in the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, the home of his estranged political mentor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This move comes amid a deepening rift between the two political figures, who have been at odds over the control of Rivers State.

Wike, who hails from Rumuepirikom in Obio-Akpor, has openly criticized Fubara, accusing him of betraying those who helped him rise to power. At a recent reception organized by the Ijaw Peoples Assembly in Port Harcourt, Wike confidently asserted that he would eventually teach Fubara and his supporters a lesson, stating, “Money does not win politics. When the time comes, we will play politics and teach them what it really means.”

In response, during an inter-denominational church service held at St. Paul’s Cathedral as part of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebrations, Fubara defended his administration’s performance, contrasting it with the previous government’s achievements. He highlighted key infrastructural projects, including the Port Harcourt Ring Road and the Trans-Kalabari Road, as evidence of his government’s effectiveness, claiming these surpassed what Wike’s administration achieved in eight years.

Fubara took a direct jab at his political adversaries by alluding to the psychiatric hospital in Obio-Akpor, stating, “I included a psychiatric hospital in the general hospital we are building because they will need it soon.” He went on to assert that his one-year achievements overshadow the work done during Wike’s tenure, calling his opponents “empty containers making noise.”

The governor also stressed that his administration’s projects are for the benefit of the people of Rivers State, not driven by personal business interests. He emphasized that his policies are focused on meaningful development, not the “mere jamboree” of groundbreaking ceremonies. “Whatever I am doing, I am doing it for the people of Rivers State,” Fubara remarked, pledging that all projects initiated under his government would be completed and put to public use.

He also expressed confidence that despite ongoing challenges from his critics, his administration would continue to push forward with its development agenda, grounded in humility and a commitment to safeguarding the interests of the state.