Bauchi State Governor, Sen. Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, has assured his Rivers State counterpart and PDP colleague, Siminalayi Fubara, that Bauchi State will continue to stand firmly with him, no matter what challenges arise.
Bala Mohammed, who also serves as the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), spoke on Saturday when the Rivers State Governor paid a condolence visit over the recent passing of his stepmother, Hajiya Hauwa Mohammed Duguri.
He declared, “Bauchi has always stood by you because you mean well. We will always align ourselves with justice, equity, and truth, which is why we will continue to support you.”
The Governor added, “We must also congratulate you on your determination and dexterity in claiming what is rightfully yours, taking control of the party’s structure in your state, and assuming the leadership role.”
The Bauchi State Governor also praised Siminalayi Fubara for his exceptional leadership qualities, describing him as “very calculating, highly competent in leadership, strategic, and resolute.”
Expressing his gratitude for Fubara’s visit, he said it made him “very happy and proud” and emphasized the strong bond between them, stating that Fubara is “not a stranger, but my brother.”
Bala Mohammed also commended Fubara’s leadership style, stating that they would work together to ensure the PDP achieves maximum efficiency and productivity.
The Governor stressed, “First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for your visit. It’s never too late to show support, and I’m truly happy and proud that you took the time to come. Your visit highlights the strong bond between us, which may not be evident to everyone within our party.”
Bala Mohammed further described Fubara as a calculative and strategic leader, commending his ability to hold his ground and take charge of the political structure in Rivers State despite tensions.
He said, “We are delighted to receive you. Fubara is very calculative and strategic. I want to thank you for the empathy you have shown. Your visit has truly made me happy.”
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Fubara’s Response
Speaking earlier, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara acknowledged that his visit was belated but emphasized its importance in showing support for Bala Mohammed and his family during their time of grief.
He described the loss as “tragic” and highlighted the significance of relationships, particularly in times of sorrow.
The Rivers State Governor also underscored the importance of their working relationship, emphasizing their collaboration to address challenges and promote unity and progress.
He reiterated his commitment to maintaining the PDP’s structure in Rivers State and ensuring the party’s success.
Fubara stated, “Although this visit is late, it’s better than not coming at all. It’s a milestone, showing our support for the governor and his family during this difficult time following the loss of his stepmother, who was like a mother to him.”
He also declared his readiness to take bold and decisive actions to address challenges facing his state, acknowledging the difficulties of leadership and the necessity of making tough decisions.
According to him, “I know it’s not an easy task, and I know names will be called. But there comes a time when you must take a strong stand to ensure things are done the right way.”
Fubara emphasized that his visit went beyond offering condolences, stating, “What I’m doing now is to show everyone that we have a good relationship and that we are in this together to correct what needs to be set right.”
He also assured that his collaboration with Bala Mohammed would not end with this visit, pledging continuous partnership for the unity and growth of both states.
“I can assure you that this is not the end of our collaboration. We will continue to work together for the unity and development of both states,” he added.
