In a post on X Wednesday, Farotimi said Wike demonstrated
political shrewdness in his choice of Siminalayi Fubara as successor, even
though he strongly criticized Fubara’s leadership.

“You should applaud Wike’s recruitment genius, not question
the Ijaw’s historic record of bravery. I don’t like Wike, there’s absolutely
nothing to emulate or to eulogize in him, BUT on this matter of the Simpleton
known as Fubara, I am persuaded to acknowledge his genius,” Farotimi wrote.

Wike and Governor Fubara were locked
in a prolonged political battle shortly after Fubara assumed office.

The rift led to the declaration of state of emergency in the
state, with Fubara and his deputy suspended for six months.

Fubara has since been reinstalled as governor after
President Bola Tinubu lifted the emergency rule last week.