Focus
Best Governor, Grassroot Development In Nigeria: How Wike Emerges
Yesterday, Governor Nyesom Ezebunwo Wike’s landmark achievements got an international recognition in far away New York, United States of America.”The Best Governor, Grassroots Development In Nigeria Award’ conferred on the Rivers State Governor by the United Kingdom based Africa Leadership International Magazine bears eloquent testimony to Wike’s uncommon development strides in Rivers State in the last 16 months of his administration.
Like a proverbial gold fish that has no hiding place, Wike’s stewardship in the last few months has caught the fancy and admiration of many Nigerians including members of the opposition parties.
Yesterday’s international recognition was therefore the icing on the cake of a man who has been variously described as an actualiser, ‘talk-and-do governor’ and a grassroot politician.
In the last 16 months of his stewardship as the Rivers State governor, Wike has left no one in doubt that he is a good testament to good governance especially the judicious application of lean resources. Besides his direct connection and interface with the ordinary people on the streets which makes him a man of the people, the Rumuepirikom-born politician has positively touched the lives of Rivers people through his uncommon transformation of the State.
What perhaps made Wike’s achievements more noticeable and outstanding was the state of hopelessness Rivers State had become before the present administration came on board. Besides the State’s economy that was in shambles, and a comatose social infrastructure, poverty was also pervasive. No thanks to a litany of abandoned and unexecuted projects, backlog of workers’ salary arrears, the captive state of the State’s legislature and judiciary for an unprecedented period of over one and half years and a huge debt left by the immediate past administration in the State.
In spite of the parlous state of affairs he inherited and the paucity of funds occasioned by the dwindling federal allocations to the State, Governor Wike has continued to keep his promises to the electorate. Today, Rivers State has regained its status and commanding heights among other States in the country. Hope, the common elixir, is also gradually returning to Rivers people.
One area that obviously keeps Wike ahead of other governors is ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE.
In spite of the near empty treasury and a huge debt inherited from his predecessor, the governor has turned Rivers State into a huge construction site. Besides the Operation Zero Pothole progamme which has seen to the delivery of more than 130 roads in Obio/Akpor, Eleme, Port Harcourt and Oyigbo, the Works Ministry under the Wike administration has delivered 150 kilomeres of roads in the last 15 months. The more than 100 roads are spread across six local government areas, while many more will soon follow. Most of these were strategic roads and bridges that were abandoned by the previous administration but which are of huge benefit to Rivers people.
Within the first seven months in office, Wike’s administration completed two federal roads that are critical to economic development of the State, namely: the NPA Industry Road and the Eleme-Onne junction section of the East-West Road.
The Igwuruta-Chokocho-Okehi highway which is another federal road is near completion and expected to be commissioned before the end of this month. The 6.6 kilometre highway serves as a link to two local government areas of Ikwerre and Etche, but had been abandoned for decades.
The State roads are not left out. The Iloabuchi-Eagle Island Link road that was abandoned by the last administration was completed and commissioned in January, this year. The road serves as a major link between Mile One in Diobu area of Port Harcourt and Eagle-Island, and also connects other parts of the State such as Agip, Ada George and Rumueme. It has since decongested traffic on Ikwerre Road.
Same goes for Abuloma-Woji Link road. The road which is worth N13 billion was also completed and commissioned by Governor Wike in January, this year.
Other abandoned road projects completed and commissioned by Wike’s administration include Oyigbo Market Road, Abonnema-Obonoma Link Road with a new bridge, first phase of the NLNG-Nkpogu Road and the first phase of Odili Woji-Akpajo Link road. The second phase of both the NLNG – Nkpogu Road and Odili-Woji-Akpajo Link road is currently undergoing construction and expected to be completed soon.
Meanwhile, the dualisation of 16 km Sakpenwa-Bori-Kono Road which straddles three local government areas of the State is on-going. Ditto for the East/West-Airport (Prof Tam David West) Boulevard; the Igwuruta-Etche Road, the Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout Road, Elelenwo-Akpajo Road, Rukpokwu-Eneka Road, Rumualogu-Alakahia Road, Rumuolumeni-Iwofe Road, Elioparanwo Road, Elimgbu Road, Nkpolu-Rumuigbo Road, Rumuagholu-Oroigwe Road, Ozuoba-Rumuosi Road, Ozuoba-Rumuokparali-Choba Road, Igbogo-Choba Road, Ogoni/Andoni/Opobo Unity Road, the Kalabari Link road and Nkpogu-Trans Amadi Link Bridge, Woji-Elelenwo bridges, among others.
Contrary to allegation by a frontline member of the opposition party in the State, Senator Magnus Abe that the Sakpenwa-Bori Road does not meet international standard, the road, according to Governor Wike is being constructed by the CCECC, an internationally recognised company that executed the Abuja-Kaduna Light Rail Project. The road which traverses three local government areas in Ogoniland and also leads to Opobo-Nkoro and Andoni Local Government Areas, when completed, would boost economic activities in the State as well as assuage the sufferings of users.
Meanwhile, work has commenced on the completion of the Kpopie-Bodo City Road which was allegedly abandoned by Senator Magnus Abe after allegedly collecting over N4 billion from the immediate past administration in the State .Other strategic areas that have received attention of the State government in the last 16 months are the Kalabari Land Reclamation that is meant to rejig rural development, the Marine Jetty at Okrika that facilitates marine transportation and economic activities in the area and the Port Harcourt Pleasure Park.
The construction of the on going multi-million naira Pleasure Park in Rumuola by a construction giant, Julius Berger Plc, was initiated by Wike to provide Nigerians, especially citizens and residents of Rivers State with a world class recreation facility. It is scheduled to be completed in December, this year.
Education is another sector that has received a boost under Wike’s administration. The governor’s passion for quality education has led to the completion of the Model Primary School at Rumuodomaya, the Law Faculty Complex of the State-owned University of Science and Technology (RSUST); the establishment of College of Medical Science at RSUST, procurement of science equipment and examination materials for senior secondary students in 247 schools in the State, and the payment of outstanding debt owed Ambassador Nne Kurubo Model School, Eleme by the last administration, among others.
Meanwhile, the Wike-led government, in a bid to develop a world class educational system in the State, is currently undertaking an upgrade of 11 old secondary schools in three senatorial districts in the State. The upgrading is meant to restore full boarding system that ceased in the 1980s. Work has since commenced at Government Girls Secondary School, Rumuokwuta and Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori which are among the pilot schools selected for the re-introduction of boarding school system in the State.
Governor Wike hinted of the vision behind the remodeling of the 11 schools and the re-introduction of boarding system in the State.
“Our people deserve the best. Therefore, we’ll give them the best education. We are developing a boarding school system that will produce students who can compete globally,” the governor said.
At the same time, the Wike-led administration is about to commence the rehabilitation of technical schools in the State.
According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Technical Education Matters, Prof. Israel Owate, the rehabilitation of technical schools such as the Government Technical School in Trans-Amadi, Government Craft Centre on Aba Road and the newly established School for Craft and Vocational Training at Port Harcourt Primary School in Old GRA would soon take off.
The decision of the State government to revive these schools is in fulfillment of Governor Wike’s promise to rejig technical education in the State, as well as arrest the dwindling level of technical manpower in the State and Nigeria in general.
Governor Wike also facilitated the upgrading of the Rivers State College of Arts and Science to a polytechnic via the executive bill he sent to the State House of Assembly. The bill has since been passed and the college is now a full-fledged polytechnic.
Water Supply. This is another sector that has received a revival pill under Wike’s administration which inherited only two percent functional water supply facilities in the State. To change this trend, this government set a target to increase functional water supply in the State by 80 percent, and has massively invested in it.
The State government started with the construction of five water schemes in five local government areas of the State, while also upgraded some of the existing ones.
Also recently, the Wike administration commissioned a 50 km network reticulation water project located at Alasa and Agbonicha booster stations to boost-water supply in the areas. In the same vein, the rehabilitation of water scheme in Okrika Aleto is on top gear.
The State government has also entered into partnership with the European Union, UNICEF and other agencies for the provision of potable water in Opobo town, Kalaibiama and Nkoro in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, and in Abonnema, Kula and Abissa in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area.
Health. In the area of health, Wike has left no one in doubt that health is wealth. He has established a framework for equipping major General Hospitals in the State. His government has awarded contracts for the rehabilitation of General Hospitals in Abonnema, Ahoada, Ikwerre and Isiokpo, while the health centres across the State are also receiving government attention.
Under Wike, the new phase of the Integrated Medical Industries (IMI) is near completion with all the necessary facilities and equipment fabricated by manufacturers in Europe.
According to the governor, the IMI project when completed, would create 3,000 direct and indirect jobs in the State, as well as conserve foreign exchange and stop the importation of some key medical consumables.
The new phase of the medical company is expected to be the biggest in the country with the capacity to produce one billion syringes and other vital medical equipment that will stem the tide of importation and give Nigerians access to high quality medical services.
As part of efforts to boost health service delivery in the State, Governor Wike recently inaugurated the Rivers State Private Hospitals Intervention Scheme. The scheme is to assist private hospitals to provide, quality healthcare for the people of the State. The first phase has 25 private hospitals owned by non-indigenes as beneficiaries.
Security: Being his primary responsibility to the people of Rivers State, Governor Wike does not take the issue of security lightly. Although there was heightened sense of fear and anxiety in the State, occasioned by high wave of kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and assassination prior to the present administration, the trend has considerably changed since Wike took over the affairs of the State, last year.
Besides assisting the security agencies in tackling crimes and other related activities, through provision of operational vehicles fitted with modern communication equipment for the police, the State government has also taken the war against crimes to the criminals’ den
Recently, the State government took the war against kidnapping, cultism and other crimes to a new level by demolishing property allegedly owned by some kidnappers. Governor Wike also offered amnesty to kidnappers and cultists who would submit their arms to security agencies and commit themselves to honest living.
To give legal backing to the fight against cultism in the State, the governor sent an executive bill to the House of Assembly. The bill which sought an amendment of the Rivers State Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law of 2004, has since been passed into law, and will serve as a legal instrument to ensure that culprits, apart from being subjected to the prescribed penalty of jail terms, will also forfeit to government, all their properties acquired through acts of kidnapping.
Today, Rivers State is safe both for social and economic activities. Night life is booming in Port Harcourt and its environs, while economic activities have been at a peak, resulting in the rise of internally generated revenue of N5 million under the immediate past administration to the present N10 billion per month.
Several events that took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital in the last few weeks, such as the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Conference, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) National Conference and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention, under peaceful atmosphere and without a record of kidnapping, murder or assassination have confirmed Governor Wike’s remarks that the tagging of Rivers State as insecure and unsafe for economic and political activities by the opposition is a farcical political contraption.
Workers’ Welfare: At the time Governor Wike assumed office, the State civil servants were being owed three months salary arrears. Within the first one month of his administration, Governor Wike cleared the backlog of the arrears. His government is also up-to-date in payment of salary.
It was in appreciation of the governor’s love for the State civil service that thousands of civil servants in the State staged a rally on Thursday, January 28, 2016 in Port Harcourt, to celebrate Wike’s electoral victory at the Supreme Court.
Governor Wike has also succeeded in other sectors, such as housing where his government has completed over 50 units of two and three bedroom flats at the Iriebe Housing Estate; Judiciary where he initiated the construction of the on-going new ultra modern Law Centre for the NBA at the cost N498 million, as well as the re-construction of the Federal High Court.
Wike’s achievements in the last 16 months have attracted wide applause from many prominent Nigerians, including some key opposition members in the country who visited the State to witness, first-hand, the definition of good governance.
The Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, while giving testimony after inspecting some projects embarked upon by Wike’s administration, recently said, “Any person from any part of Nigeria can come here and reside with access to the good things of life. I have seen street lights, good roads and vibrant economic activities everywhere with new houses springing up. Government is working here.”
The Deputy Senate President was not done yet. He added that “Governor Wike has restored faith in government as far as Rivers State is concerned. In other places, people are losing faith in government. Here in Rivers State, you can see the dividends for the votes cast for the PDP.
“I believe that once other States emulate what is happening in Rivers State, Nigeria will be better.”
Hundreds of lawyers, who were in Port Harcourt towards the end of last month for their national convention also testified to good governance in Rivers State. The lawyers under the auspices of NBA, took the time off to inspect some of the projects executed by the Wike government, such as the NBA Law Centre, Federal High Court, Dr.Nebo Gram-Douglas Faculty of Law at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, Pleasure Park, second Nkpogu Bridge, Elelenwo Akpajo Road and the second Woji-Akpajo Bridge. They commended Governor Wike for the pro-people projects and particularly for executing projects that promote legal practice in the country.
Key members of the opposition party are not left out in the commendation of Governor Wike’s stewardship. A frontline leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Governor of Sokoto State, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal could not hide his feelings after commissioning some of the projects completed by Wike’s administration. While unveiling the refurbished and expanded Okrika (ATC) Land Jetty in Okrika town, Tambuwal who was the immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, described Governor Wike as a man of the people.
“I see that Governor Wike is a man of the people who is committed to the development of the State,” Tambuwal said.
The Best Governor Award conferred on Wike in far away New York, yesterday, is a confirmation that the vote of confidence recently passed on the Rivers State governor by over 300 frontline editors from all mainstream and online media organisations across Nigeria was not in error.
The editors who were obviously held spell bound by the level of unprecedented infrastructural development they saw in the State, and the level of security measures put in place, came to the conclusion that Rivers State is a safe haven, contrary to the salad of lies and half-truth being dished out by members of the opposition party in the State.
“Based on careful observation of the state of affairs in Rivers State, the Guild commended the government and people of the State for the level of security and infrastructural development, as well as for the step being taken to promote agriculture in the State,” the NGE stated in a communiqué.
Given several commendations the governor has received in a couple of months from various stakeholders including a vote of confidence recently passed on him by 29 political parties in the State, there is no doubt that Wike is not just a leader of the opposition party in the country, he is a testament to good governance and of course, a shinning advertisement for his Peoples Democratic Party.
The “Best Governor, Grassroots Development in Nigeria Award conferred on him, yesterday in New York, United States is, therefore, a well deserved honour that should be celebrated by all Rivers people.
Boye Salau
Focus
Reminisces On Tributes To Mrs Adeline Ndalu Jaja
Live not as though there
were a thousand years ahead of you. Fate is at your elbow; make yourself good while life and power are still yours,” so said the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, Marcus Aurelius, who had spent valuable time in meditation, and from deep moments of reflections.
The counsel was in recognition of death, nonetheless, as a marker of the ephemeral nature of life. A necessary end, that would come when it may, and never cared at what age of a person it strikes. So, at 87 years, death struck and Mama, late Mrs Adeline Ndalu Jaja (Nee Ohochukwu) yielded and was taken to glory.
Late Mrs Adeline Ndalu Jaja (Nee Ohochukwu) was mother-in-law to the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. Mama was a loving mother to her first daughter, Lady Valerie, the wife to the governor.
Mama’s death weighed heavily. The feeling was painful. The memories traumatic. Death, always left pain of loss that ran deep, discomforting and grave. When it happened, it affected, not only the surviving kin, the children, church, but the entire community because it would be a serious loss to it’s identity and continuity.
It was on Saturday, March 16, 2024, that the earthly remains of Mama Adeline Ndalu Jaja (Nee Ohochukwu) returned to mother-earth in a blaze of glory. She was buried in Opobo Town, the capital of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The events that led to the interment were wrapped up as a festival of sort. This was despite the fact that, originally, the plan was to have solemn sessions, such that offer an atmosphere to encourage deep reflection, remembrance and to celebrate the life of Mama.
Regardless, all outlined intentions were achieved. It was festival cum solemn assemblage. Many people were attracted to attend, across spheres, professions and vocations. Tributes were in rich supply, paid.
First, it was the Service of Songs at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Mile One, Diobu, in the heart of Port Harcourt City on March 13. Then, the Funeral Service held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo Town on Saturday, 16th March. The outing and Thanksgiving Service was on Sunday, March 17, at the same church venue.
All those who attended bode farewell to Mama. They left with unforgotten experiences of what they encountered, which was how well Mama lived, as conveyed in the tributes that were paid.
The witty, energetic, and optimistic personality of the Matriarch were sumptuously acknowledged. She taught many persons the lessons of how to embrace and celebrate life. Mama was generous with what she had, defended the weak because she was outspoken and brave. She was never shy to stand in the gap, looked out for the less privileged, promoted the common good as a disciplinarian, and with visionary leadership, shaped many lives positively.
Born on May 17th, 1936 at Nkarahia, Isiokpo in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Mama was an enterprising business owner and remained a devout Christian until her death. As an unrelenting activist, she uplifted humanity, worked to promote timeless virtues that make life valuable. She was the third daughter of four children born to late Elder Maxwell Wahusie Ohochukwu of Isiokpo in Rivers State and Margaret Uwakwe from Umunjam, Mbieri in Mbaitolu Local Government Area of Imo State.
Mama attended the St. Peter’s Primary School in Isiokpo where she got her First School Leaving Certificate, and eventually graduated from standard six. She got employed into the Nigerian Police Force in 1962 and eventually retired in 1997.
Late Mrs Adeline Ndalu Jaja found love in late Senibo Ebenezer Gberepikima Jaja (Senior), and eventually married him. She was blessed with five children, and the wife of the Rivers State Governor was her first daughter. Her worldview was shaped by the values of hard work, respect for others, integrity and perseverance. She died on December 17, 2023.
Reminisces of the tributes to Mama are compelling and memorable. Governor Siminalayi Fubara recalled how close he was with Mama when he spoke at the Service of Songs: “Mama was a great woman. She made me marry her daughter because of what she saw in me. When Mama believed in you, she would go all out for it. I feel so sad that all the mothers in my life; my mother and my mother-in-law, that would have enjoyed their support to me, have all passed.”
While speaking at the Funeral Service, Governor Fubara harped on the need for people to learn lessons from the life that Mama lived. He said: “We are all here this afternoon to say bye-bye to Mama. But I want you to go home with something. And by the grace of God, I don’t think there will be any counter to the point I will make.
“How do we live our lives? Can we live in such a way, that when we are no more, our names can open doors for our children? That is what I want you to go home with.
“Mama has lived her life, and it has opened a lot of doors for her biological children. Even those people that are close to Mama, when you mention that you know so and so person, doors will open.
“So, I want everybody here, to go back and reflect on it. You must live life, so that when you are no more, and our children who are left behind when you are gone, when they mention our names, let that name open doors for them. I feel that is the greatest virtue parents should leave for their children.” Serious food for thought!
But one of the most touching is this from Governor Fubara: “Mama was not just my mother-in-law; she was more than that. From the very day I became a member of their family by marrying her daughter, she took and related with me as her son. A strong woman of faith, my family and I enjoyed immense love, support, and prayers from her presence in our lives. She was always there for us throughout her lifetime.
“Though we mourn her departure, I cannot but be proud of Mama’s remarkable lifetime of service to the nation, God and humanity and her legacy of positive impacts and accomplishments.
“As a police woman, she was respected for her honesty, discipline, and fairness. As an entrepreneur, she was focused, hardworking, and resourceful. As a devout Christian, she loved and served God in diverse ways, and contributed to the development of the church in her community, Opobo. She was also an exceptional woman, a responsible mother and grandmother, a disciplinarian, yet compassionate, generous, and always there to lend a helping hand to everyone who came her way.
“I will forever cherish the great moments she shared with my family and me, and be ever thankful to God for the fact that Mama will continue to live because of her positive impacts and glorious legacies.”
Another tribute inspiring introspection from Wife of the Governor, Lady Valerie Fubara reads: “Indeed, my mother was an inspiring soul, who was always there for all, even when they come with their challenges of any kind. Her home was widely open to all, as her hospitality made people around her feel important.
“Mummy was the most loving, humble, compassionate, understanding, family-oriented woman, and one of the most beautiful souls one could ever ‘encounter’. If there is reincarnation, I will choose you a million times. Your life was indeed a blessing, your memory a treasure!”
That event was also attended by the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri. He paid his tributes too, saying: “I know how I felt losing a father at 88 years, and so, no matter how old your parents are, whether it’s 100 years, it can be painful. But we would have wished that she would have died thereafter, particularly against the background that her daughter today is the Number One Lady of Rivers State, but we can only wish it, but God decides when anyone of us would go. So, I urge you to take heart, as her legacies and memories will continue to be a guiding light for you and the family.”
Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof Ngozi Odu said, “During her lifetime, Mama was known as an amazing woman who positively touched the lives of many with her kindness, grace and the love she shared with those around her.
“She was a police officer who was loved and erected because of her integrity, diligence and commitment in the discharge of her duties which will forever be remembered by all those who knew her.”
The Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr George Nwaeke, wrote: “Mrs Jaja’s remarkable legacy, as reflected in her age of 87 years, reminds us of a life well-lived, imbued with wisdom, love and lasting contributions to her community. We can only imagine the depth of your loss but hope you find solace in the memories you shared with her and the knowledge that she touched many lives in meaningful ways.”
Her son, Dr Ebenezer Gberepikima Jaja (Jnr) said, “If this, however, is the last time I get to say goodbye to mother, I will do it with the knowledge and understanding that I consider myself to have been gloriously blessed to be your son.
“You touched not only my life, but the lives of many others by your selfless and countless acts of kindness. Mama, you always gave and never expected any favours in return – not even when you needed it. You were a no-nonsense disciplinarian who made me stay within certain parameters, which I had to obey to be on the up and up. You always ensured I stayed focused and on course in everything I did. Your discipline was based on love, God’s fear and ultimate care. You were also generous, almost to a fault.
“You were a fulfilled and accomplished woman. The evidence is obvious and manifest in us, your children, who you raised uprightly, successfully, and worthily… Sorrow is not enough to wash away your wonderful memories. You were simply the best; just knowing that you are the apple of God’s eyes is enough for us. I love you but God loves you more!”
Her second daughter, Engineer Vanessa Donald Banigo also reflected on the life Mama lived, saying, “Though as a fact that death is inevitable, regardless of the age, I would have wished my beloved Mummy could live forever… Your departure has somewhat placed me empty, as I could recall living with me, you became my guardian angel, and a source of strength… With you, I never had any reason to say I am broke, because you were always there to lend or give me instead.
“You taught me how to be bold and strong in the storm of any challenges, because you were a woman of wisdom. You taught me that prayer is the only source of greatness. Words alone cannot express how I feel right now. I truly miss you Mummy! You have fought a good fight, may you be crowned with the crown of glory in the heavenly kingdom”.
The St. Andrew’s Anglican Church of the Niger Delta Diocese said, “With each step, she illuminated the path of righteousness, her unwavering faith, a beacon in the times of darkness. Though trials and triumphs she held fast to her beliefs, in every word spoken, in every gesture relief.
“Her kindness knew no bounds, her compassion, profound, in serving others; true joy she found with a heart full of love, she touched lives near and far, leaving behind a legacy that outshines every star.
“Paying dues with diligence, fulfilling each vows, her commitment to serve an example unsurpassed. Though she is departed from our earthly sight, her presence lingers, a guiding light. For in the hearts of those she touched, she will forever remain.
“A faithful woman now free from earthly pains. As she joins the church triumphant, let us rejoice and sing, and not mourn, for she has found eternal peace on angels’ wings.”
Bishop of the Diocese of Evo, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Province of Niger Delta, The Right Reverend Innocent Ordu, said, “We thank God for giving Mama a long and fruitful life during which she touched the lives of many positively by her honesty, sincerity, integrity, devotion and selfless service to her family and the community.
“Your Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, this death of your dear mother-in-law must have come to you as a rude shock, particularly at these challenging times when her presence and admonitions would have been a great source of support and encouragement to you. We urge you, however, to be of good comfort, knowing that she us now resting in the arms of the Lord after her labours here on earth.
“Our dear Lady Valerie, what counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that determines the significance of the life we lead. Your mother is an expression of thus fact. More so, a mother’s love, they say, is eternal. We, thus, encourage you to hold on to that infinite love of your mother and let it be your guiding light.”
The Chief Medical Director of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Chizindu Alikor said: “Auntie Ploice was a remarkable soul who embodied strength, warmth, kindness and commitment to family and community. She was a beacon of wisdom, a custodian of history, and a source of inspiration.
“Her presence lit up every room, and her giggling was a melody that brought joy to all fortunate enough to share in her company. She approached life with resilience, and a unique blend of grace and determination that left an indelible mark on everyone around her. Her role as a mentor and guide extended far beyond familial bonds; she was a source of support for all who sought her wisdom. Her compassionate nature and genuine interest in the wellbeing of others made her a pillar of strength in times of joy and sorrow alike.”
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu said, “Your mother’s unwavering dedication and professionalism as a police officer leave an indelible mark on the history of the Rivers State Police Command… Throughout her distinguished career, she served with distinction in various capacities and State Commands, including Edo, Abia, and Rivers states… While we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, we draw strength from the profound impact she made during her lifetime. Her commitment to service and the invaluable legacy she leaves behind will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Rivers State Command, ACG Rev Canon Charles Hart said, “We mourn with you and celebrate the extraordinary life of a remarkable mother, who was, indeed, a mother to all. She was a shining example of motherhood, kindness in her services to the people of Opobo Clan.
“Whilst her death has left a gaping void among the ranks of mothers, I encourage you, however, to take solace in the fact that she lived a fulfilled life and left behind an enduring legacy.”
The Accountant-General of Rivers State, Uche Ideozu said, “The demise of your dear mother at this time is not only a great loss in your beloved family members and close relatives, but also one that affects the good people of Rivers State at large. Because we cannot question God for choosing to call her home at this particular time, we can only but take solace in the fact that He permitted her to leave her footsteps in the sands of time.”
Also, the Forum of Permanent Secretaries in Rivers State said, “Sir, the passage of Mama came as a great shock not only to the Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service but to the entire people of Rivers State. We have truly lost a virtuous mother and a great daughter of the State who served her fatherland as a police officer and contributed immensely to the peace, security and development of Rivers State and Nigeria in general.
“We are, indeed, saddened by her sudden departure at this time that her motherly love, care and wisdom is much needed to move Rivers State forward. However, as mortals, we cannot question our Maker, the Almighty God.
“We kindly urge Your Excellency and your entire family to be consoled by the fact that Mama was a great mother who lived a life worthy of emulation, created positive impact while she was alive and was loved by all. She would be greatly missed.”
Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Chairman, Dr Enyiada Clifford Cookey-Gam said, “Your mother was a peaceful and disciplined police officer, who served the nation meritorious in her days of service. She was a quintessential mother, and a good Christian. Indeed, her death is an irreplaceable loss to you and your family. However, may the impeccable lifestyle she lived, and the loving memories of your mother console you at this time of grief.”
The Queen Osunju Jaja House said, “We are indeed, short of words but we are consoled that she lived a good and peaceful life before her sudden demise. She was indeed a kind woman who extended her kindness and love to all those who interacted with her in her sojourn on earth. Her pleasantries, firm mien, hard work, discipline, industry, and good official conduct in public service bear testimony to the great personality of Late Mrs Adeline Ndalu Ebenezer Jaja. We are indeed proud of her that is why we call her ‘Mama Police’”.
Rev Dr. Peter Finebone and Evangelist Ibiene Peter Finebone emphasised that: “As a retired police officer of the Nigerian Police Force, Mama was a peace-maker and a disciplinarian, which she inculcated to her children. She was a woman of many feathers and of distinct characteristics.”
These are only but a few of the flurry of tributes paid in honour of late Mrs Adeline Ndalu Jaja, at activities celebrating her final interment in Opobo Town. These tributes would remain stark reminders of the legacies she left behind. Like they say, these are memories that would remain indelible in history for centuries to come. Goodbye Mama!
Chukwudi is the Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor, and writes from Port Harcourt.
By: Nelson Chukwudi
Focus
The Belligerent Rantings Of Tony Okocha
Discerning minds are definitely amused by the new found occupation of Rivers State Caretaker Committee Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Tony Okocha. It is amusing because each time he speaks or writes, he apparently exposes the height of his crass ignorance. Rivers people, however, know exactly where he draws his energy from in his new found hatchet job.
Rather than face the task of adequate representation of Rivers State in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), he rather chooses ignominy and belligerent ranting as an insane alarmist. Anyway, that, of course, is the only way he could possibly justify the filthy lucre from his demigod and benefactor.
Indeed, one would not have dissipated energy dignifying Tony Okocha with a response, considering his unstable character which inspires his bunch of false and uninformed diatribes. Made toxic by his rabble-rousing antics, he now can be aptly labelled “Toxic Tony Okocha”.
All caught-up in his toxic state, Okocha deliberately refuses to see through logical reasoning and constructive criticism. Instead, he chooses fiction over empirical facts.
In his recent tantrums, he has been quixotically sounding sarcastic in his posers.
He apparently chose devilish propaganda without corresponding empirical evidence as he failed in his uninspiring tirades of comparing Rivers State with Borno, Lagos, Kaduna, Niger, and Akwa Ibom States without showing the benchmark for such tasteless exercise.
Today, it is obvious that the main man in Rivers State engaged in foolery and falsehood as his article in trade is Toxic Tony Okocha. Just for filthy lucre, he has been quite unreasonable with his campaign of calumny which does not reflect the reality on ground in Rivers State. Someone should educate Okocha that his approach is definitely not the right way to play the role of opposition.
Toxic Okocha needs to stop this deliberate attempt to distract by focusing attention on efforts to reconcile a fragmented and factionalised APC in Rivers State. Okocha needs to stop this meddlesomeness in the workings of the State Executive Council and the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature, which he is partly instrumental to, and focus on bringing all APC members together and holding regular Executive Committee meetings with all stakeholders in his party.
Any living citizen of Rivers State that in his clear conscience supports Tony Okocha’s perfidious perdition and foolery is not only wickedly complicit to the machinations of servitude, but an enemy of strategic development that is being propagated by the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
Which responsible citizen will be unhappy that civil servants are being promoted and earmarked to earn corresponding wages? In fact, Tony Okocha and his cohorts have not been happy that the funds their demigod had been covetously syphoning are now being used for the welfare of Rivers workers. So, his assignment is to discredit every good effort of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
It is instructive to inform Toxic Okocha that Sir Siminalayi Fubara is judiciously deploying the resources of the State for the utmost development of the State and the welfare of the people.
Furthermore, Okocha now sanctimoniously sees Rivers women half naked in protest against servitude and reckless intimidation of their sons as abominable, but never saw any infractions or condemned it, when in 2019, the same women protested half naked to defend their mandate that they freely gave to his benefactor. What a hypocrite? A case of removing a speck in another man’s eye but having a log in your own eye.
Okocha attempted to query Sir Siminalayi Fubara for expending Rivers State resources without an approved budget. Indeed, one can truly see that Tony Okocha is suffering from fixated amnesia, perhaps hallucinating on the idea of Governor Fubara re-presenting a budget already passed and signed into law to an assemblage of men suffering from legitimacy questions. The legitimate members of Rivers State House of Assembly have done their bit on the 2024 budget, and the budget is already operational. If Tony Okocha is aggrieved and not satisfied with it, he should go to court to challenge it. Period!
In the eyes of Tony Okocha and his benefactor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara is guilty of their own infractions, but in the eyes of the law and the good people of Rivers State, whom SIM holds their mandate, Governor Fubara is well acquitted and doing the right thing to totally liberate them from the shackles of servitude and criminal greediness.
Apparently, in Rivers State, we live in two worlds: one that accommodates all Rivers people with Sir Siminalayi Fubara; and the other where Toxic Tony Okocha and his benefactors live with the wicked intention of perpetually enslaving and suffocating the people for their selfish interests.
It may be trite to reiterate, but it is a fact that whatever revenue accruing to Rivers State is being prudently utilised by Sir Siminalayi Fubara to better the lots of the people. We need not remind Okocha that, because of his crass ignorance, he could not drive his earlier narrative of Siminalayi Fubara squandering over N140billion. This is because he did not remember that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s signature project, the Port Harcourt Ring Road is worth over N195billion, with a down payment of N150billion. Of course, the project is funded with a loan serviced from the State’s monthly allocations. Besides, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has also embarked on several other life-impacting projects that the wicked will pretend not to see in their blind criticism. The projects include the 20,000 units low income housing; rehabilitation of the Aleto-Ebubu-Eteo Road; the Bori and Elelenwo internal roads; the extended 12.128-kilometer Egbeda internal roads; the rehabilitation of various roads in the Port Harcourt metropolis; the N4billion MSMES fund; payment of WAEC/NECO fees; completion of all inherited projects from the previous administration, the State Government intervention to boost the productive capacity of the DADTCO Rivers State Cassava Processing Factory, and efforts already in top gear to resuscitate the Rivers Songhai Integrated Farm, and other agricultural transformation investments of Government abandoned by the previous administration for eight years, among others. Does Okocha need all the projects of Government ongoing in the 23 local government areas listed for him to realise that he has been delusional?
In fact, Tony Okocha acknowledged that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is also paying the corresponding wages to the promoted civil servants in the State in addition to the Christmas bonus they received. He should also know that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is paying pension and gratuities, including death benefits of retirees that were abandoned by his benefactor for eight years. The Rivers State Secretariat Complex now has water and power supply, a huge infrastructure investment, providing working offices for thousands of Rivers people but was also abandoned for eight years. These are funds his benefactor was initially frittering away in the past while Rivers people languished in abject poverty.
Similarly, the calculated attack by Okocha on Governor Siminalayi Fubara is nothing but an assigned, coordinated political propaganda to taint the efforts of Sir Siminalayi Fubara. It is clear testament that as a crack technocrat, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has been quite prudent in resource management since his assumption of office. So, insinuating, without facts, that he is sponsoring rallies of the SIMplified Movement across the 23 local government areas under the disguise of thanksgiving with Rivers State fund is nothing but imaginary summation.
One wonders if Toxic Okocha is not aware that Sir Siminalayi Fubara is gaining organic support from Rivers people, old and young, just because of the strategic policy actions that are directly affecting their lives positively. In fact, he should know that liberated Rivers people are ready to mobilise and mop-up whatever funds they may have anywhere to galvanise support for Sir Siminalayi Fubara to enable him succeed. He does not need to spend state funds to gain the people’s support. No. The earlier Toxic Tony Okocha and his cohorts realise this, the better for their health before they relapse into incurable high blood pressure.
Tonwei, a public affairs analyst, writes from Port Harcourt.
By: Ebare Tonwei
Focus
Fubara : That Akpabio’s Needless Outburst
Sir Siminalayi Fubara is the current Governor of Rivers State. Godswill Akpabio is the current President of the ninth Senate. The latter was two-time Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs. The former was the Accountant-General of Rivers State under then Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, with whom he is now estrangedz.
Both Amaopusenibo Siminalayi (Sim) Joseph Black-Fubara and Godswill Obot Akpabio met on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the funeral ceremony of late Access Bank chief, Herbert Wigwe, who died alongside his wife, son, and a friend in a helicopter crash in the United States.
Fubara, being the governor of the late Wigwe’s State, was the chief host of the retinue of mourners at the obsequies of the Wigwes, while Akpabio who also hails from the South South geopolitical zone as the deceased and the governor, represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
You would expect that protocols allowed the governor to dictate the pace of the ceremony even if the President of Nigeria or his representative was there.
I dare to say that Akpabio misrepresented the President of the federation by what he said thereafter.
Ask me how.
A grieving Fubara took to the stage to explain the vanity of life. He did it so eloquently and his speech reminded those present that this life is not worth the struggle. He wondered why we had to struggle to kill, maim, get political power, become rich only to die the way the Wigwes died.
“This one has to do with our political class. What is all this struggle about? You want to kill…, you want to bury. What is it all about?” he asked.
His speech was moving, even though it sounded too harsh on the political class to which he belonged. It moved many to tears. Those who thought they had shed enough tears since the deaths occurred cried a little bit more considering the circumstances and its connection with the governor’s speech.
But not for Akpabio. Everything to him is politics. There are no bounds when it comes to playing it. It does not matter whether the occasion is a burial ceremony or a church service. He must seize every opportunity to play to the gallery, and that was exactly what he did at Isiopko last Saturday.
“If there’s nothing in it, don’t struggle,” he fired back at the governor. No respect for protocols. No regards to the nonagenarian father of Herbert.
He took the microphone and told Fubara to stop shedding crocodile tears. He told the state chief mourner that if he felt the struggle was not worth it, he should not get involved in it.
He did not understand the import of the governor’s speech. He could not just as he did not understand that he goofed when he announced in the hallowed chambers of the Senate that money had been transferred to the accounts of the Senators to enable them to celebrate Christmas. When his attention was drawn to the gaffe, he tried to correct himself in the most annoying manner possible. He gleefully announced that it was not money that was sent but prayers.
Watching him that day, I felt like a child in a kindergarten. I wondered if he understood the harm his open microphone gaffe did to struggling Nigerians who were irked that while they were thinking about where their next meal will come from, their leaders were sharing money like children sharing cabin biscuits at a children’s end of year party.
He is known to have spoken on many occasions in a manner that is beneath the office he has occupied and the current one he occupies.
Nigerians may have gotten used to politicians’ loose talk that nobody bothers anymore. Many public officers speak in like manner when discussing serious issues ailing the nation.
But what surprised zzmany was that at Akpabio’s level and the position he occupies, he ought to know that certain things are better left unsaid. Even if Fubara did not sound tough like his predecessor/godfather, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, the fact that the occasion was a funeral ceremony would have taught him to exercise restraint and leave that petulant response for another time, maybe when they meet to settle the roforofo fight between Fubara and Wike.
You see, my friends, in civilised climes, the likes of Akpabio should be in one federal correctional centre, awaiting trial over corrupt allegations levelled against him while serving as governor.
Unfortunately, ours is not a sane clime or a civilised one. Therefore, no court of law has, will ever commit such characters to jail terms for what they did while holding public trust.
It is for this and other reasons that the likes of Akpabio will never learn that words have meaning and that, like the Yoruba will say, ‘it is not every cloth that is spread outside.’
Akpabio displayed a worrying behaviour in his response to the speech by the governor, and all who have his ears should whispper to him that the future generation looks up to leaders like him to show them the way. He should be told that, like Fubara said, this life is fleeting and is not worth the fights and struggles.
Here today. Gone tomorrow.
The Wigwes were here and they are now gone forever.
So shall Akpabio and all those who are privileged to hold publuc offices and who see politics as ‘door or die affair,’ and who have no qualms how it is played.
Words have meaning. Let those who use them weigh their public utterances. History does not forget.
Chukwuelobe is a public affairs analyst and former media aide to former Governor of Rivers State, Dr Peter Odili.
By:
Fred Chukwuelobe
-
Politics3 days ago
Port Harcourt Ring Road Remains Our Signature Project – Fubara
-
Focus3 days ago
The Belligerent Rantings Of Tony Okocha
-
News1 day ago
SERAP Calls For Legal Framework For Human Rights
-
Politics1 day ago
Soludo’s Performance Assessment, APGA Tackles LP Chieftain
-
Oil & Energy3 days ago
Savannah To Take Over Stubb Creek Field in Nigeria
-
News3 days ago
IYC Debunks Report Of Planned Attack On Military Across N’Delta
-
Niger Delta3 days ago
RISA Boss Okays Fubara’s Human Capital Development Initiative
-
Nation1 day ago
Gov Mbah Signs Bill To Establish Teaching Hospital In Enugu