By Kenneth Orusi
As Nigeria’s South-South region navigates the complexities of leadership, politics, and development, two neighboring states, Delta and Rivers, offer a striking contrast in governance styles.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, still within his first full term, can draw crucial lessons from the turbulent experience of his Rivers State counterpart, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whose administration has been engulfed in crisis since its inception.
Here’s a critical look at the unfolding drama in Rivers State and what Oborevwori must note if he is to avoid similar pitfalls and safeguard Delta’s stability.
1. Political Loyalty Is Not a Blank Cheque – Manage Power Brokers Wisely
Governor Fubara’s rise to power was largely seen as the handiwork of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Their early camaraderie has since imploded into one of Nigeria’s most acrimonious political rivalries.
The fallout demonstrates that political loyalty in Nigerian politics is fragile and often transactional.
Lesson for Oborevwori: While Oborevwori owes his political ascendancy to power blocs, including his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, he must assert independence strategically, not through open confrontation, but through deliberate consolidation of grassroots support, institutional loyalty, and inclusive governance.
Alienating key political figures too early or too abruptly could lead to the kind of political instability crippling Rivers State.
2. Build Strong Legislative Relationships – Not Power Struggles
In Rivers, the Executive-Legislative crisis has stalled governance. Governor Fubara’s poor communication with the State Assembly, missteps over the budget re-presentation, and refusal to fully engage legislators have created a governance vacuum.
Lesson for Oborevwori: He must recognize the importance of legislative partnership.
Regular consultations, mutual respect, and clear communication with lawmakers can prevent friction and ensure seamless passage of budgets and laws.
Rather than wielding power over the legislature, Oborevwori should build consensus and foster a collaborative atmosphere.
3. Governance Must Not Take a Backseat to Politics
While political fireworks rage in Rivers, governance is suffering. Civil servants face uncertainty, infrastructure projects have stalled, and insecurity is rising, all while leaders are locked in a power tussle.
Lesson for Oborevwori: Stay focused on development. Delta citizens expect infrastructure, job creation, and security, not political drama.
By delivering visible projects, improving the economy, and maintaining public trust, Oborevwori can insulate his administration from internal political distractions.
4. Rule of Law and Due Process Matter
Fubara’s administration has been accused of selective obedience to court orders and circumventing proper channels, including communicating official correspondence through media rather than formal means.
These actions have painted his government as unprofessional and combative.
Lesson for Oborevwori: Respect for due process and adherence to the rule of law enhances legitimacy.
All arms of government must operate within the legal framework, and public perception of fairness, transparency, and accountability is key to sustaining political capital.
5. Avoid Ethnic and Regional Sentiments as Political Weapons
In Rivers, ethnic and sectional sentiments have been subtly weaponized to rally support and discredit opponents, further deepening divisions.
Lesson for Oborevwori: Delta is an ethnically diverse state. The governor must lead as a unifier, not a factional leader.
Governance must be inclusive, ensuring all ethnic groups feel represented and respected. This is key to maintaining peace and harmony across the state.
Leadership by Reflection, Not Reaction
The Rivers experience is a living lesson in how quickly political capital can evaporate when ego, poor strategy, and lack of institutional engagement converge.
For Governor Oborevwori, Rivers State is not just a neighbor, it is a cautionary tale.
Leadership is about reflection, not reaction. Oborevwori has an opportunity to strengthen Delta’s institutions, avoid unnecessary conflicts, and build a legacy rooted in stability, development, and good governance.
The choice is his to make, and the lessons are clear.
