Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has described Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers as a true democrat, even as he commended the ‘successful’ conduct of Saturday’s local government elections in the State.
Muhammed, also the Chairman, Governors’ Forum of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), stated this in a statement issued by Fubara’s Press Secretary, Mr Nelson Chukwudi, and made available to newsmen on Monday in Port Harcourt.
He affirmed Rivers as a PDP state, notwithstanding the fact that the 23 newly-elected local government chairmen and councillors, who were sworn-in on Sunday, were not only from the party.
The governor also commended his Rivers counterpart for being proactive in the delivery of good governance at the local government level, irrespective of party allegiance or consideration.
“He didn’t have a structure of the PDP in the state for certain reasons and he had to go out to make sure that he allowed other parties to participate within the political space so that there won’t be any vacuum.
“I think this is auspicious and creative, and I am very proud of him. Yes, we have lost as a party, and that is why we want to run away from this,” he said.
Muhammed also assured of possible reconciliation of the current crisis bedevilling PDP so as to achieve the desired unity within the party.
Meanwhile, speaking to the press after attending the swearing-in ceremony of 23 local government chairmen in Rivers State, the Bauchi State Governor expressed admiration for Governor Fubara’s proactive leadership.
“As the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, I commend Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his unwavering dedication to strengthening democracy through inclusive governance.
“Speaking to the press after attending the swearing-in ceremony of 23 local government chairmen in Rivers State, I expressed my admiration for Governor Fubara’s proactive leadership. His ability to navigate complex political challenges with strategic insight has allowed officials from various political parties to serve at the local level, reflecting a commitment to governance that transcends partisan lines.
“Even though the PDP has lost control in some regions, Governor Fubara remains a loyal member of our party, and his democratic principles are widely recognized. His approach, which ensures governance without political barriers, serves as an exemplary model for other governors.
“Drawing from my own experiences in Bauchi, where I have faced similar political challenges, I applaud Fubara’s ability to lead effectively despite the complexities he faces. His leadership demonstrates how to navigate difficult political terrain while prioritizing the greater good.
“Furthermore, I reaffirm the unwavering support of the PDP Governors’ Forum for Governor Fubara.
“In conclusion, I am confident that our efforts toward party unity and reconciliation will bear fruit. The PDP Governors’ Forum stands firmly behind Governor Fubara as we continue to support his leadership and the values he upholds,” Muhammed wrote via his official Facebook page.