Wike And Fubara Compete Through Bags Of Rice Distribution In Rivers State

 

The political rivalry between Governor Sim Fubara and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike took an unusual turn during the festive season as both leaders engaged in a high-profile gesture of goodwill: distributing bags of rice to the residents of Rivers State.

Despite the backdrop of a longstanding political feud, the distribution of customised rice bags adorned with the faces of the prominent political figures became a conspicuous feature in Port Harcourt and its environs.

Governor Wike reportedly allocated 2,000 bags of rice to each local government area, adopting a broad approach. In contrast, Governor Fubara opted for a more targeted strategy, distributing 100 bags per ward.

Numerous stakeholder groups, including political factions, youth associations, market unions, non-indigenous communities, and landlord associations, found themselves recipients of these politically-branded rice offerings.

While social media buzzed with commentary, some users cynically questioned the motive behind the distribution and even the quality of the rice. However, investigations revealed that the rice in the customised bags met quality standards, with no complaints from the recipients. 

Addressing the impasse and emerging issues, Senator Magnus Abe, the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the 2023 election in Rivers State, voiced his concerns on a popular radio station, Super 93.3 FM, Port Harcourt. Abe, who had recently announced his return to the All Progressives Congress, criticized the distribution process, advising Governor Fubara, “Let me criticize Governor Siminalayi Funara. He sent rice; that rice should go beyond the PDP. It should not be for PDP alone. Give PDP, give APC, give SDP, and give everybody.”