Why Governor Fubara Said “Dogs Are Barking”

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Why Governor Fubara Said “Dogs Are Barking”

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State used the metaphor “dogs are barking” to describe political opponents who, in his view, act out of confusion and misunderstanding during the ongoing impeachment crisis. His statement was meant to reassure citizens that his silence and calmness stem from confidence in God and clarity of purpose, not weakness.

Context of the Statement

Governor Fubara’s remark came at a tense moment in Rivers State politics. The State House of Assembly had initiated impeachment proceedings against him, while his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, remained a central figure in the political struggle. During a church service marking the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Port Harcourt, Fubara explained why he had chosen not to respond aggressively to the mounting political attacks. He said that “dogs bark when they don’t understand,” implying that those making noise against him were acting out of ignorance or fear rather than genuine purpose.

Meaning Behind the Metaphor

The governor’s metaphor drew from a common saying: a dog barks when it encounters something unfamiliar. By likening his opponents to barking dogs, Fubara suggested that their agitation was rooted in confusion about his leadership style and decisions. He contrasted their noise with his own calmness, stressing that he understood the situation and therefore had no need to “bark.” He emphasized that his reliance on God gave him confidence to remain silent, even when provoked.

Political Implications

The statement was not just rhetorical; it carried political weight. Fubara’s words were interpreted as a direct jab at Wike’s camp and other legislators pushing for his removal. By framing their actions as meaningless barking, he sought to delegitimize their efforts and reassure his supporters that the crisis would not derail his administration. He also reminded the public that leadership requires composure and understanding, not loud confrontation.

Public Reaction

The metaphor resonated widely in Rivers State. Supporters saw it as a sign of maturity and restraint, while critics argued that it trivialized serious political challenges. Nonetheless, Fubara’s calm tone at the remembrance service helped ease tensions, as he assured residents that peace would soon return to the state. His remark became a symbolic expression of his approach to governance: quiet confidence in the face of turmoil.

Let’s Take A Break

Governor Fubara’s statement “dogs are barking” was a deliberate metaphor aimed at portraying his opponents as confused and noisy, while positioning himself as calm, composed, and guided by divine assurance. In the midst of impeachment threats and political upheaval, the phrase captured his strategy of silence and faith, contrasting sharply with the loud confrontations of his rivals. It has since become a defining remark in the unfolding Rivers State political crisis.