Penultimate Friday, a devastating fire incident occurred, leaving a trail of destruction and unspeakable tragedy. A tanker transporting premium motor spirit (PMS) collided with a heavy duty truck, triggering an inferno that engulfed the area. Motorists and commuters were caught in the conflagration, their lives extinguished in the relentless flames. The fire’s intensity left many victims unrecognisable, while their bodies charred beyond identification.
The vehicles in the vicinity were reduced to smoldering wreckage, their once-pristine exteriors twisted and consumed by the relentless heat. The fire raged uncontrollably, leaving a scene of utter devastation in its wake. Emergency responders fought valiantly to contain the blaze, but the damage had already been done. The incident sent shockwaves throughout the state and beyond, leaving residents reeling from the magnitude of the loss. Families were torn apart, lives cut short in an instant.
The event reportedly occurred between Indorama gate and Aleto bridge on the popular and ever-busy Eleme section of the East-West Road, now undergoing major reconstruction by the Federal Government. The State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, visited the scene and expressed pain and anguish upon sighting the gory spot. It was a devastating sight that left him visibly shaken, as he consoled the victims and their families.
Nigeria’s infrastructural state has been a scourge for many years, with roads being one of the most glaring examples of neglect. Sadly, that portion of the East-West Road, which has been neglected for more than 17 years, connects the Eleme-Onne oil and gas industrial hub as well as hundreds of other related industries like the Indorama Petrochemical, Port Harcourt Refineries, Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone and the two seaports, the Federal Light Terminal and Federal Ocean Terminal, all in Onne. The road equally leads to the entire Ogoni axis, and some South-South states like Akwa Ibom and Cross River.
The deplorable condition of the road connecting the Ogoni Local GovernmentAreas of Khana, Gokana, Tai, and Eleme, as well as Ogu\Bolo, Okirika, Andoni and Opobo, has made access to the areas difficult. The road had deteriorated so severely that motorists would endure agonising journeys of up to seven hours to navigate a mere 20-minute stretch. The treacherous highway had claimed numerous lives, leaving behind a trail of shattered families and broken dreams.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Rivers State Government and several multinational companies operating in the area took the initiative to rehabilitate that portion of the expressway in 2015. Their collaborative effort focused on a six-kilometre stretch from Eleme Junction in Port Harcourt to the Onne exit point. The project, estimated to cost around N3 billion, aimed to address the dilapidated condition of the roadway, which had become a major impediment to economic activities and transportation.
In 2021, hundreds of youths under the auspices of the Ogoni Youth Federation (OYF), took over the Eleme-Onne axis of the East-West Road in a peaceful protest against the Federal Government’s alleged neglect of that fraction. The youths were said to have mobilised trucks to barricade the Akpajo and Refinery junction stretch, making it impossible for thousands of workers who journey through that route to get to their offices.
The tragic incident could have been prevented if Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), the firm handling the project, had taken adequate measures to manage traffic flow at the construction site by opening up alternative routes. The company’s negligence in this regard bears compelling responsibility for the unexpected event and the subsequent loss of lives. Consequently, RCC should be held accountable and face appropriate sanctions for its failure to plan out public safety.
In addition to holding the establishment responsible, the Federal Government has an obligation to provide compensation to the victims who suffered injuries and losses. This indemnity should not only cover medical expenses and loss of property but also provide for the emotional trauma and suffering endured by the affected individuals. The provision of financial assistance would demonstrate the administration’s commitment to supporting those who have been impacted by the adversity.
Furthermore, the federal authorities should reimburse the families of the deceased victims. Losing a loved one in such a senseless and devil-may-care manner is an immeasurable loss that deserves adequate financial recognition. The Nigerian government should acknowledge the pain and hardship experienced by these families and help them navigate the difficult road ahead by offering some sort of settlement.
Following that Friday’s tanker combustion, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) released a statement, seeking safer methods of transporting petroleum products across the country. During a visit to commiserate with Governor Fubara, Chairman of the Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said that discussions were ongoing among the 36 state governors and strategic federal agencies in the oil and gas industry to achieve the objective.
We agree no less with the Forum. Petroleum exploration has revolutionised transportation across various sectors of human activity. The sheer volume of oil produced necessitates efficient and large-scale transportation methods, making rail and maritime freightage indispensable. The economic significance of oil transportation by these modes cannot be overstated, especially considering the potential risks and impracticalities of transporting vast quantities of petroleum via road.
Rail and maritime means of conveyance offer far more efficient and cost-effective solutions. Trains possess the capacity to transport large volumes of oil over long distances, while ships enable the haulage of even greater quantities across oceans. These modes provide a safe, reliable, and economically viable means of distributing petroleum to various regions of the world, meeting the demands of industries and individual consumers alike.
Finally, this catastrophe has highlighted the urgent need for the Rivers State Government to revitalise its inactive fire service. This can be achieved through the recruitment of qualified firefighters, extensive training, and the provision of modern firefighting equipment and vehicles. Besides responding to emergencies, a functional fire service would also carry out fire safety inspections and educate the public on preventing fires. Moreover, there should be an emergency management team to mitigate future disasters in the state.

It is not surprising that organised labour is pushing for a wage review, as President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform has negatively impacted Nigerian workers. Since taking office last May, the economy has been in turmoil, leading to hardships for many employees. The need for a wage increase is vital as workers continue to bear the brunt of the economic downturn.
The implementation of minimum wages in Nigeria has historically faced several obstacles. Despite the government’s mandate to set and enforce a minimum wage for all workers, many employers, particularly state governors and in the informal sector, fail to comply. This widespread non-compliance undermines the objective of protecting workers from exploitation and ensuring a basic standard of living.
Numerous factors contribute to the challenge of implementing minimum wages in Nigeria. One major issue is the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms. The National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) is responsible for enforcing the minimum wage, but its powers are often limited. Employers who violate the law often go unpunished due to weak enforcement and the high cost of legal proceedings for workers.
In the negotiations between the federal and state governments, a critical factor that must be considered is finding the right balance amidst the challenges posed by the country’s double-digit inflation rate, the growing national debt profile, and the pressing issue of ensuring timely payments from both state and federal authorities. Both levels of government must collaborate to address these economic concerns and come to a mutually beneficial agreement that prioritises the financial stability of the nation.
Things are not looking good. The organised labour, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, has proposed an astronomical jump from the current N30,000 per month to N650,000. While it is undeniable that the current rate of N30,000 is insufficient, the drastic increase to N650,000 is simply not realistic and may not be feasible for the government to implement. Both parties should find a middle ground that is fair and sustainable for all stakeholders involved.
The challenge before the minimum wage committee, which Tinubu inaugurated recently, is to find a realistic rate for all the parties concerned, including the private sector. This task is not an easy one, as there are various factors to consider when determining a fair minimum wage that benefits both workers and employers. The committee will need to take into account the cost of living, the current economic situation, as well as the financial capabilities of businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.
Incidentally, the Nigerian economy is facing multiple challenges at the moment. With inflation at a staggering 29.90 per cent, a debt stock of N87.9 trillion, a high lending rate of 18.75 per cent, and a grossly devalued naira at N1,300 per $1, the cost-of-living crisis has worsened. The recent surge in food inflation, jumping to 35.41 per cent in January from 23.75 per cent the previous month has added to the economic woes. Moreover, the rapid price increases in petrol and diesel, essential for the economy, have further burdened the already distressed population.
Hence, the demand by labour for an upward wage review is justified given the rising cost of living and inflation. However, the government faces a dilemma in determining the appropriate rate of increment. Nigeria’s economic situation is dire, with debt servicing consuming a staggering 99 per cent of its revenue in the first quarter of 2023. Balancing the need to improve workers’ welfare with the constraints of the economy is a delicate task. The government must engage in constructive dialogue with labour to find a compromise that addresses their legitimate demands while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the economy.
If the government succumbs to labour’s demands and borrows more to fund the wage increase, its financial stability will be further compromised. This could lead to a debt crisis, with severe consequences for the economy. The governing authorities must explore alternative revenue sources and implement prudent fiscal measures to address labour’s concerns without jeopardising the nation’s financial health.
Retrospectively, an excessively high minimum wage can pose challenges for states. When the wage was raised to N18,000 during the Goodluck Jonathan era, many states struggled to meet their salary obligations. As of October 2023, BudgIT reported that 15 states were still failing to pay the N30,000 minimum wage set by the Muhammadu Buhari administration in 2019. This situation has dire consequences for workers, who rely on their wages for sustenance.
The inability of states to pay the minimum wage is often attributed to their limited economic viability. Data from Economic Confidential indicates that only seven states are economically viable without federal allocations. This means that the majority of states rely heavily on federal support to meet their financial obligations. When the minimum wage is raised too high, states with weak economies may find it difficult to balance their budgets and fulfil their responsibilities to both workers and other sectors.
Any minimum wage that will be agreed upon should be sufficient to meet the needs of Nigerians. Unfortunately, many state governors have failed to implement the wage award approved by the Federal Government for civil servants, despite the high cost of living. This lack of action is unacceptable and shows a lack of appreciation for the struggles that public sector workers face. State governors should prioritise the well-being of their employees and ensure that they are able to make ends meet with the wages they receive.
We firmly advocate for the autonomy of state governments to streamline their workforce by retaining only those workers who demonstrate productivity. An example of this would be questioning the necessity of hiring typists in the era of advanced technology. Additionally, the rationale behind employing 20 drivers within a government agency deprived of operational vehicles may also be subject to scrutiny.
Many governors overlook the importance of paying their workers properly, which can have a positive impact on the overall productivity and economic growth of their states. States should have thriving industries that can create employment opportunities. Governors need to understand that low consumer demand can hinder the growth of businesses in their domains. They have to consider implementing efficient wage systems to ensure fair compensation for workers and foster economic development.

Ndoni, a small, but peaceful community in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State
was recently filled with excitement when eminent dignitaries, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, attended the inauguration of the new Comprehensive Primary Healthcare Centre. This generous donation came from the PAMO Educational Foundation, established by former Rivers State Governor, Dr Peter Odili, who hails from the Ndoni community where he is deeply revered. The Foundation holds a special place in the hearts of the local people.
The inauguration ceremony was a source of great joy and celebration for the community, as the new healthcare facility promises to provide much-needed medical services to the people of Ndoni. The facility is built to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including maternal and child health, immunisation, family planning, and treatment for common illnesses. It is expected to significantly improve the health outcomes of the community, especially for women and children.
PAMO Educational Foundation’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the well-being of the Ndoni community and its environs is exemplified by the establishment of this health facility. The Foundation has consistently invested in initiatives that foster education and healthcare, and this new amenity is a testament to its ongoing commitment. PAMO’s rich history of supporting educational endeavours and healthcare programmes in the community has laid the groundwork for the Foundation’s continued contributions. The health resource stands as a beacon of hope, providing much-needed medical services and improving the quality of life for countless individuals.
Undoubtedly, the presence of dignitaries underscored the necessity of the event and the value placed on the health centre by the community and the state government. The Ndoni people expressed their profound gratitude to PAMO Educational Foundation and former Governor Odili for their generosity and commitment to the well-being of the community. They pledged to make good use of the health appliance and ensure that it served its intended purpose for many years to come.
The former health centre, a vital lifeline for the town and its neighbouring communities, fell victim to the relentless floods of the River Niger in 2020 and 2022. The torrential waters ravaged buildings, destroyed crops, killed livestock, and tragically claimed lives. In the wake of this devastation, residents were left without access to essential medical services, a cruel blow that compelled them to undertake arduous journeys to distant communities like Omoku for over two years. The old primary health amenity was erected during the administration of Odili and inaugurated  in 2008.
The unveiling of the new health institution brought a surge of palpable relief and gratitude to the beneficiaries. The modern facility, equipped with state-of-the-art apparatus and dedicated medical professionals, stood as a symbol of hope and resilience. It marked a new chapter in healthcare for the community, providing them with the means to access quality medical services in the comfort of their own surroundings. The trauma of the floods was slowly fading into memory, replaced by a sense of renewed optimism and a profound appreciation for the gift of healthcare.
Governor Fubara inaugurated the event, which provided a platform for reconciliation as numerous politicians who had previously distanced themselves from the current government were seen at the gathering, showing their support for Fubara’s administration. In his address, the governor thanked Dr Odili, the founder of the PAMO Educational Foundation, and a key political figure in the state, for standing by his administration in the wake of the political turmoil in the state.
He pledged his government’s support to the Ndoni people by enhancing the healthcare accommodation and highlighting Odili’s legacy as a valuable gift. The administration aims to provide quality education, healthcare services, and empowerment, including agriculture and human capital development. Fubara has already approved the recruitment of 1,000 medical doctors for primary health, Hospital Management Board, and Rivers State University Teaching Hospital to improve healthcare delivery and ensure the use of zonal hospitals in the state.
Odili praised Fubara for his humility and commitment to protecting Rivers people in line with the constitution, and encouraged him to focus on providing good governance. He said: “Politics is over, it is now time for governance and you have to hit the ground running, you have touched the critical sectors. In less than one year in office, you have touched education, you have touched health, but the key to what you have done so far is the focus on human beings, on the people, especially the poor amongst you. Human beings are the soul of society. So touching the lives of human beings is more important, you have started showing signs of that.”
We express our sincere gratitude to the former governor for his incredible determination in establishing the health facility. This admirable deed will always be remembered in history as a symbol of his unwavering dedication to the health of the people in our state. By generously donating his personal resources, he has shown true patriotism and a deep love for his community. His selfless actions have not only provided essential healthcare services but have also inspired others to do the same.
For the Ndonis, the inauguration of the health facility marks a critical milestone in the provision of accessible and affordable healthcare. It is an attestation to Odili’s visionary leadership and his unwavering belief in the importance of investing in the health and well-being of his people. We celebrate this Rivers son for his exceptional foresight and humanity. His legacy will be forever linked to this exceptional facility, which will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and healing for generations to come.
All the elites in our state should emulate Odili by embracing a spirit of collaboration with the government to foster the development of the state rather than disparage aimlessly. Needless criticisms, on the other hand, can hinder progress and create an atmosphere of distrust. While constructive animadversion is essential for holding leaders accountable, excessive or unfounded negativity can undermine morale and discourage alliance. If we focus on solutions rather than problems, we can create a positive and productive environment that attracts investment, promotes innovation, and ultimately leads to a better future for all.
Peter Odili’s exploit underscores the critical role private sector infrastructural initiative plays in enhancing the economic landscape of a state. He has not only bridged the gap between the government and private entities, but has also set a precedent for cooperation that fosters innovation, attracts investments, and creates job opportunities. These partnerships are vital for unlocking the untapped potential of the state, laying the foundation for sustainable development. The government’s recognition and support of the private sector as a driver of economic progress are essential. Rivers State can progress towards a future characterised by robust economic transformation and an improved quality of life for its people, if it emulates Odili’s example of promoting synergy.