Power Tussle: Niger Delta Researchers Discover FUBARAISM As New Philosophy of Power Dynamics

ThankGod EMEH.   

A coalition of distinguished scholars from various universities in the Southeast and South-South regions of Nigeria, the League of Niger Delta Researchers for Sustainable Development, on Friday, December 7, 2024, announced the discovery and forthcoming publication of a New Philosophy of Power Dynamics entitled “FUBARAISM” with critical insights and case study of notable political developments in Rivers State, in bids to eliminate godfatherism for democratic governance in Nigeria.

According to the researchers, the groundbreaking research book titled
“Fubaraism:…” is the culmination of rigorous academic research and investigation into the concept of Fubaraism, a philosophy of power dynamics that have been associated with the leadership style of the current Governor of Rivers State, Similayi Fubara, adding that “the research work is designed to provide an objective and dispassionate appraisal of Fubaraism, its underlying principles, and its implications for governance and power dynamics in Rivers State”

The Researchers

Addressing newsmen on the discovery of “FUBARAISM…”, the National Coordinator of the League of Niger Delta Researchers for Sustainable Development, Prof. Protus Nathan Uzoma said the group’s mission is to promote a culture of critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and evidence-based research in Nigeria’s academic and policy communities, noting that “through the research work, the League aims to contribute to the development of a more nuanced understanding of power dynamics in Rivers State and to provide a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of Fubaraism as a philosophy of governance”

Prof. Uzoma stressed that the “book is not intended to indulge in partisan politics or to promote any particular ideology, but rather to provide a rigorous and balanced analysis of Fubaraism and its implications for governance in Rivers State,” especially as it concerns fighting Godfatherism, which has over the years led to the marginalization of other stakeholders and interests, including those of the ordinary citizens.

Prof Uzoma in the middle 

He also emphasized that “the research team has employed a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from political science, sociology, philosophy, and economics to provide a comprehensive analysis of Fubaraism”, noting that “the book is divided into several chapters, each of which explores a different aspect of Fubaraism, including its historical context, its underlying principles, and its implications for governance and power dynamics in Rivers State”

“The book is nearing completion and will be launched soon. The League invites scholars, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage with the ideas and arguments presented in the book and to contribute to the ongoing debate about the nature and implications of Fubaraism”

“The concept of godfatherism in Nigerian politics is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. In the context of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s approach, it’s essential to understand the dynamics of godfatherism and its implications for democratic governance in Rivers State” as “Governor Fubara’s rise to power is a classic example of godfatherism in Nigerian politics. His predecessor, Nyesom Wike, played a significant role in his emergence as governor. However, their relationship has since deteriorated, with Wike publicly expressing disappointment and frustration with Fubara’s actions.”

“In Rivers State, the conflict between Wike and Fubara has underscored the challenges of godfatherism in Nigerian politics, The rivalry between the two has been fueled by Fubara’s attempts to assert his independence and consolidate his power base, while Wike has sought to maintain his influence and control over the state’s politics.

“Despite these challenges, it’s essential to recognize that godfatherism is a deeply ingrained phenomenon in Nigerian politics. It’s a product of the country’s complex history, cultural dynamics, and socioeconomic realities. Therefore, addressing the challenges of godfatherism requires a nuanced and multifaceted approach that
takes into account these underlying factors.

“In the context of Governor Fubara’s approach, it’s essential to recognize that his emergence as governor is a product of the same godfatherism that he’s now seeking to challenge.

“This paradox underscores the complexities of godfatherism in Nigerian politics and the need for a more nuanced understanding of this phenomenon”

The National Secretary of Niger Delta Researchers…, Prof. Christopher Okereke who spoke alongside Deputy National Coordinator, Prof. John Nwanegbo-Ben and Public Relations Officer of the League, Prof Preye Kuro as well as National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Okoroafor Sunday Adiele said the research work offers a unique perspective on the politics
of Godfatherism in Nigeria as it seeks to expose the holistic merits and demerits of Godfatherism in governance across the country, adding that they are thorough and nonpartisan in the research and as well remain resolute in leaving no stone unturned.