● Tonye Okurumo
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, to sympathize with him and his family over the death of his stepmother, Hajia Hauwa Mohammed.
The visit, which took place in Bauchi, highlighted the cordial relationship between the two governors and their states. Fubara, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to strengthening unity within the party.
In a statement signed by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor, Fubara described the loss of any family member as a deeply painful experience, irrespective of the deceased’s age, particularly when they shared a close bond with the family.
“We are here this afternoon to pay a condolence visit to the First Family,” Fubara said. “At this particular period, it is important, no matter how late it is, to show our support, to comfort His Excellency and his family on the loss of their stepmother, who is also their mother.”
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara (middle); pointing at a place of interest while his Bauchi State counterpart, Senator Bala Mohammed (left); and others watch during a condolence visit on his Bauchi counterpart over the death of his step mother, Hajia Hauwa Mohammed in Bauchi on Saturday.
Fubara emphasized the emotional toll such a loss can have, noting the significant role Hajia Hauwa Mohammed played in Governor Bala Mohammed’s life. “I was made to understand that His Excellency, my Oga, grew under the late Hajia Hauwa. So, you can see why this visit is important to us,” he added.
The Rivers governor prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family, stating, “We cannot fill that vacuum. It is only God Almighty, Allah as you call Him, that can fill that space for you. He is the only one that can provide lasting comfort. We join you in praying that Allah will provide all that is needed for the family and grant her soul perfect rest.”
Fubara also used the opportunity to restate the collaborative efforts between the Rivers and Bauchi State governments, particularly under Governor Bala Mohammed’s leadership. He pledged to continue working closely with Mohammed to address challenges within the PDP and reposition the party.
“What I am doing here is to show everyone that we have a good working relationship, and we are in this together to ensure that we set right those things that are wrong in the party,” Fubara remarked. “I know it is not an easy task, and names will be called, but it gets to a point where you come out strongly and take a position so that things will be done rightly.”
In response, Governor Bala Mohammed expressed gratitude to Fubara for the condolence visit, describing it as a reflection of their close relationship. He praised Fubara for his empathy and leadership qualities.
Governor, Siminalayi Fubara (middle); addressing newsmen while his Bauchi State counterpart, Senator Bala Mohammed (right); and others watch in admiration shortly after paying a condolence visit on the Bauchi Governor over the death of his step mother, Hajia Hauwa Mohammed in Bauchi on Saturday.
“This visit demonstrates the closeness between both of us,” Mohammed said. “We appreciate the consistent support Rivers State has always shown. Your leadership as a ‘Good SIM for Rivers and Nigeria’ is commendable, and we are always here to stand for justice, equity, and truth.”
The Bauchi governor also commended Fubara’s efforts in reclaiming the political structure of the PDP in Rivers State, noting that it strengthened his position as both governor and party leader.
“With the support of the National Working Committee and other governors, we will continue to close ranks to ensure that we minimize rancor in the party, except where it is necessary to straighten records,” Mohammed assured.
The condolence visit underscored the unity and shared vision between the two leaders, as well as their determination to address the challenges within the PDP while providing comfort and support to one another in times of loss. GMTNewsng
