Rivers governor, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday revealed how he started earning good money before he ventured into politics.
Wike spoke when he paid a visit to felicitate with former Senator John Azuta-Mbata on his birthday at his country home, Eneka Town in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday.
The Governor credited the former Rivers East Senator with the opportunity he had to make money before he ventured into politics.
Wike recalled that he started earning good money while preparing estate property document as legal agent for the former Senator.
He also said the Senator sponsored him to occupy his first political position as the chairman of Obi-Akpor Local Government.
The Governor also said Senator Azuta-Mbata’s support had reflected on his administration and on the overall wellbeing of the State.
“We felt that you’re somebody that has supported us and supported the government.
“And so, we believe that as one of those who have made positive impact towards the life and development of the State, it’s necessary to come and identify with you today.”
“Thereafter, when the chance came to become the chairman of Obio Akpor Local Government Area, Senator Azuta-Mbata championed it, sponsored him, despite the imposing hurdles, he became council chairman in 1999.
The governor noted that even though Senator Azuta-Mbata is no more in active politics, he has remained an invaluable asset to the State.
“So many people do not know my relationship with you. But those who are very close and know about my political career, they know that my first shot in public office was sponsored by you for me to be council chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government.
“I started making money as a lawyer preparing all the estate documents for you. So, I have made money through you before I became council chairman through preparation of land documents.”
“Your role and the role you played in this community, in fact the development of this community cannot be taken away from you.
In his response, Senator Azuta-Mbata said he felt privileged and honoured to host governor Wike on his birthday, the first he had ever marked.
Senator Azuta-Mbata said the performance of Wike has justified what he saw when he decided to sponsor his participation in active politics.
According to him, Wike was then considered fit and proper person, but today, he has surpassed political achievements of all those who supported him at the inception on a broader scale.
Senator Azuta-Mbata particularly noted that while most people get into office and forget those who contributed to their success, Wike has kept touch and remained grateful.
According to a press statement signed by Kelvin Ebiri, his special assistant on media, Wike was accompanied on the visit to the former senator by the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sir. Siminialayi Fubara, Chairman of Rivers Elders Forum, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba and other chieftains of PDP.
