From Paul Orude, Bauchi

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has pledged to continue working with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum to reposition the crisis-ridden opposition party.

Fubara made the pledge during his visit to Bauchi over the weekend to console Governor Bala Mohammed, the Chairman of the forum, on the death of his stepmother, Hajiya Hauwa Duguri.

Although Fubara acknowledged that his visit was belated, he emphasised its importance in showing support for Mohammed and his family during their time of grief.

As Vice Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Fubara stressed his commitment to maintaining the structure of the PDP in his state and ensuring the party’s success.

“As a state, we have always worked together, not just the Bauchi government, but this particular government, where I happen to be the Deputy to him as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum,” he said.

“What I am doing here is to show everyone that we have a good working relationship, and we are in this together to correct the wrongs in the party.”

He acknowledged the challenge ahead but said it was time to take a strong position to ensure things are done rightly.

“We are here today to pay a condolence visit to the First Family. At this particular time, it is important, no matter how late, to show our support and comfort His Excellency and his family on the loss of their stepmother, who is also their mother.”

Governor Mohammed, who thanked Fubara for the visit, praised him for his exceptional leadership qualities, describing him as calculating and qualitative in his leadership style.

“We have no qualms against anybody,” Governor Mohammed said, stressing that all loyal members of the PDP must respect the dictates of time in their respective domains to remain united as a strong opposition platform.

He acknowledged Fubara’s control of the PDP structure in Rivers, noting it is important for balancing power and reflecting democratic ideals. “All the governors are with you,” he emphasised.

The PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman assured Fubara of the forum’s support over the control of the party’s structure in Rivers.

He also commended the synergy among PDP governors, saying it has helped to achieve significant progress in addressing wrongs within the party.

Fubara has been at odds with his predecessor and the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over control of the PDP in Rivers.

Last week, the National Working Committee of the PDP reaffirmed its recognition of the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive, which is loyal to Fubara, in light of a Rivers State High Court ruling nullifying the party’s Ward, Local Government, and State Congresses held on July 27, August 10, and August 31, 2024.