Proverbially Speaking, ‘When You Give The Goat Food, Leave The Rope’: Wike, Let Fubara Govern

BY ISAAC ASABOR*

In the rich tapestry of African wisdom, proverbs often carry profound truths that resonate across generations. One such saying is, “If you give a goat to someone as a gift, also leave the rope for the beneficiary.” Its meaning is simple, yet powerful, as it simply translates to mean when you offer someone a position of responsibility or an opportunity, you must also grant the person the freedom to manage it on his or her terms. This wisdom rings particularly true in the ongoing political dynamics between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his protégé, the current Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.

Wike, a political titan in Rivers State, was instrumental in ensuring that Fubara emerged as his successor. Having served two terms in office, Wike’s influence on state politics remains undeniable. However, since Fubara took over the mantle of leadership, tensions have surfaced, with allegations that Wike is still holding onto the reins of power from behind the scenes. If this is true, it raises an important question: What good is helping someone rise if he or she is not allowed the independence to lead?

Leadership is not a mere title; it is an embodiment of responsibility and autonomy. A leader, though benefiting from the counsel and wisdom of those before him, must be free to make his own decisions, chart his course, and confront his challenges. The proverbial goat that Wike gave Fubara must not remain tethered to the strings of its benefactor’s influence.

To fully appreciate the situation, we must first acknowledge the political stature Wike has built for himself over the years. As Governor, Wike was lauded for his developmental projects in Rivers State, including road construction, urban renewal, and infrastructural improvements. He was also a key player in national politics, especially within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which further cemented his image as a political strongman. By the end of his tenure, Wike had become a kingmaker of sorts, wielding influence both within and outside Rivers State.

It was this influence that paved the way for Fubara’s ascension to the governorship. Fubara, a career technocrat with a background in accounting, was Wike’s preferred candidate to continue the legacy of development in Rivers. During the elections, Wike left no stone unturned to ensure Fubara’s victory, rallying party support, mobilizing resources, and using his political network to guarantee that his protégé took the helm.

However, the transition of power from one leader to another requires more than a public handover ceremony. The incoming leader must be given the space to govern, make decisions, and carve out his legacy. While Wike’s intentions may have been to ensure continuity in governance, there are growing concerns that he has not fully stepped aside to allow Fubara to function independently.

Governance, particularly in a politically volatile environment like Rivers State, requires a delicate balance between continuity and independence. Fubara’s administration has barely taken root, yet political analysts and insiders are already raising alarms that Wike’s shadow looms large over the new government. Some reports suggest that Wike’s loyalists are still embedded in critical positions of power, making it difficult for Fubara to establish his political footing.

This brings us back to the essence of the African proverb: “When you give a goat to someone, also leave the rope. In this context, Wike has played his part in delivering the governorship to Fubara, but the metaphorical “rope” symbolizes the need for autonomy. It is one thing to hand over leadership; it is another to allow that leadership to flourish unencumbered. The danger here is that, if Wike continues to maintain a stronghold on the government, it could stifle Fubara’s ability to govern effectively and tarnish the democratic process in Rivers State.

Political godfatherism is not a new phenomenon in Nigerian politics. Across the country, there are countless examples of powerful figures installing successors only to remain the de facto rulers, exerting influence from behind the scenes. In most cases, this type of interference erodes public trust in governance and creates factionalism within the government. Rivers State, with its rich history and significant political and economic importance, cannot afford to fall into this trap.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has a mandate from the people of Rivers State. He was elected by the people to serve their interests and provide leadership that addresses their needs. For him to effectively do this, he must be allowed the freedom to operate without being micromanaged. Governance is not a puppet show; it requires a leader who is fully in control of the ship and able to make independent decisions.

Moreover, the political environment in Nigeria is evolving. Citizens are increasingly demanding transparency, accountability, and results from their leaders. A governor who is perceived to be under the thumb of his predecessor cannot effectively respond to these demands. If Fubara is to succeed and build his legacy, he must be allowed to lead without undue interference.

Wike, as a seasoned politician, should recognize this and embrace his new role as a political elder. There is immense value in being a mentor who steps back to allow his protégé to shine. Wike’s legacy in Rivers State is already well-established; now is the time for him to bolster that legacy by supporting Fubara from the background without overshadowing him.

There are real dangers to Wike maintaining too strong a grip on Fubara’s administration. First, it risks alienating the very electorate that supported both men. The people of Rivers State elected Fubara with the expectation that he would lead, not as a puppet, but as a capable governor in his own right. Continued interference from Wike could erode public confidence in the government and lead to internal divisions within the PDP, both at the state and national levels.

Second, Wike’s involvement could limit Fubara’s ability to enact meaningful reforms or pursue innovative policies that may differ from his predecessor’s. Every leader brings a unique perspective and approach to governance. If Fubara is constantly second-guessed or overruled by Wike’s influence, he may be unable to implement the changes that are necessary for the progress of the state.

As the African proverb reminds us, it is not enough to give someone a goat without also letting him or her keep the rope. Governor Nyesom Wike has already played his part by helping Siminalayi Fubara ascend to office. Now, it is time to step back and let Fubara govern fully and independently. Only then can Rivers State truly benefit from the leadership it has chosen.

Wike’s future as a respected elder statesman in Nigerian politics depends on how he navigates this crucial period. By leaving the rope and allowing Fubara to lead without interference, Wike can secure his legacy as a kingmaker who knows when to let his protégé shine. Rivers State deserves nothing less than a governor who governs with full autonomy, and Fubara deserves the chance to prove his worth as that governor.