Political analyst Dr. Neville Obagedo has advised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to carefully balance political loyalty with the urgent need for development as he resumes full duties after six months of emergency rule.
Obagedo, a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the University of Benin, gave the counsel in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday while reacting to Fubara’s reinstatement.
President Bola Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, which was lifted on September 18.
The university don stressed that loyalty remains a crucial political necessity in Nigeria’s governance landscape, where alliances and support networks help maintain power.
“Those in positions of authority must acknowledge and remain loyal to the forces that supported their ascendance,” Obagedo said. “Loyalty is not just a moral virtue but a political necessity.”
However, he urged the governor to pair that loyalty with policies and projects that directly benefit the people of Rivers State.
Similarly, Rivers politician Mr. Iwalomhe Donald called on Fubara to prioritize infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities now that he is back in office.
“By focusing on development, Fubara can ensure his administration delivers tangible benefits to citizens and builds a legacy rooted in the well-being and prosperity of the state,” Donald said.
Both stakeholders agreed that balancing political relationships with people-centered governance will define Fubara’s leadership as Rivers moves beyond the emergency period.
