Politics
Wike Congratulates Rivers Workers
The Workers Day Celebrations was the curtain raiser
last week in Government House. Governor Nyesom Wike issued a statement through his media aide congratulating workers with a pledge to always prioritise welfare of civil servants.
The governor urged Rivers workers to remain committed to the ideals of selfless service and development, noting that the process of massive development being witnessed across the state will be sustained. He particularly thanked the workers for their unflinching support to his administration since he assumed office.
Shortly after, Governor Wike attended the march past and parade of workers to commemorate the day at Gen. Gowon Stadium, Elekahia. Represented by his deputy, Dr Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, he described workers as an essential ingredient in the realization of a new Rivers State.
He called on the leadership of labour in the state to close ranks emphasizing that they can collectively achieve their goal for industrial harmony between government and workers.
On the same Sunday, wife of the governor, Justice Suzette Nyesom Wike attended the child dedication of Dr and Mrs Chika Chuku at St. Marks Anglican Church, Elelenwo. She promised that the state government led by her husband will sustain the flow of pro-people projects.
She said, “ I know the man I am married to, he is a determined and focused man. God will never let him down. He will continue to deliver in line with the promises he made to the people”.
Justice Nyesom-Wike called on the people to continue to pray for the governor for God’s grace to further the developmental feats attained by the administration.
Last Tuesday, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Dr Austin Tam-George attended the World Press Freedom Day and was represented by Director of Public Enlightenment in the Ministry, Mr Paulinus Nsirim. Dr Tam-George urged journalists to perform their duties in line with the ethics of the profession.
The Commissioner pointed out that the future of the country lies in the hands of journalists who are expected to inform, educate and entertain the society. He therefore enjoined them to be bold and professional by undertaking investigative reports, assuring that the State Government will provide the necessary environment for them to carry out their duties.
Returning to the state on Friday after official duties outside, Governor Wike flagged-off a lottery programme organized by the Nigerian-Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) for intending Christian Pilgrims in the State. The governor announced that despite dwindling resources, the state government will continue to sponsor pilgrims to Jerusalem since Rivers State is totally a Christian State.
The governor at the function held at Dr Obi Wali Conference Centre announced plans by the State Government to send 200 youths to Israel for skills acquisition, adding that the skills will help the youths in self sustenance.
Wike also bought 150 lottery tickets for each of the 319 Ward of the state at the sum of N23 million. The tickets, he insisted, should be distributed to the less privileged and not to politicians.
Last Saturday, Governor Wike took time out to inspect ongoing projects in the state. Among some of the projects visited include the New Road at Borokiri, where he expressed satisfaction at the level of work done. He however directed that the drains be connected to the creeks and waterways to ensure effective drainage and reduction of flooding in the neighbourhood.
The Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the Rivers State Governor, Dr. Darlington Oji, has disclosed that about 15 Special Advisers to the governor were duly approved by the Rivers State House of Assembly before the current political crisis in the State.
Oji made the disclosure in a Television programme in Port Harcourt, recently, while reacting to issues surrounding appointments, the impeachment moves against the governor and his deputy, and allegations of financial mismanagement.
He clarified that the appointment of Special Advisers was carried out in strict compliance with constitutional provisions, and received the approval of the Rivers State House of Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, before the crisis began.
According to the Special Adviser, the appointments did not require any further screening, countering claims that the governor violated due process in constituting his advisory team.
On the impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, Oji described the process as unfounded and lacking constitutional backing.
He said that several lawmakers who initially supported the impeachment move were now reconsidering their stance after discovering that the process had no legal basis.
Oji also attributed the impeachment plot to personal and political ambitions, saying it is not motivated by the interest or welfare of the people of Rivers State.
Speaking on the financial position of the State after the Emergency Rule, the Special Adviser disclosed that the governor met about ?600 billion in the state’s coffers upon assumption of office.
He explained that the availability of funds enabled the administration to continue governance smoothly without the need for a supplementary budget.
The governor’s aide also refuted allegations of financial mismanagement against the governor, and stressed that all allocations to lawmakers and constituency projects were transparently handled.
He maintained that the Fubara administration remained focused on development, stability, and good governance despite the political distractions in the State.
Oji expressed confidence that the impeachment moves would eventually be abandoned as legislators and the public become more informed, adding that the governor’s leadership has continued to reassure citizens and sustain political stability in the State.
King Onunwor
Accordingg to the statement, the Board and National Executive Committee of PANDEF, noted with very grave concern the recent spate of political developments in Rivers State.
“Regrettably, these developments have now degenerated into the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against the governor and deputy governor.
“This is a deeply disturbing situation that demands urgent attention in order to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order.
“This concern is heightened by the critical importance and strategic centrality of Rivers to the Niger Delta region and to the broader socio-political stability and economic wellbeing of Nigeria as a whole”, the statement said.
The Forum called on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe their swords and embrace peace.
“This should be guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity.
“All stakeholders must place paramount importance on peace, development and the welfare of the people of Rivers.
“We must now focus squarely on good governance and development of the state,” the Forum said.
PANDEF commended President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their previous and ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
Speaking in an interview on Saturday, January 10, Chief Sara-Igbe alleged that the minister had flouted regulations governing the commencement of electioneering campaigns by moving from one local government area to another to galvanise political support.
According to him, the action amounted to a clear breach of electoral guidelines being carried out with a troubling sense of impunity that could undermine the rule of law.
“Wike has violated the electoral laws of campaigning by going from local government to local government to talk to the people. He travelled from one local government to another. As a result of his visits to local government areas, he has broken election regulations and continues to do all these things without fear of repercussions”, Chief Sara-Igbe said.
The remarks came as Chief Wike was set to round off a state-wide “thank-you” tour that covered all 23 local government areas of Rivers State.
Although the minister had described the tour as an appreciation visit following support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 general elections, critics say the engagements have assumed an overtly political character.
Observers note that during several stops, including recent visits to Andoni and Bonny local government areas, the minister rallied supporters across party lines under what he termed a “Rainbow Coalition,” a move widely interpreted as part of a broader political strategy.
During these engagements, Chief Wike was also reported to have made remarks perceived as a veiled challenge to the authority of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, while repeatedly referencing the 2027 elections and urging supporters to prepare to “correct the mistake” of 2023.
Chief Sara-Igbe warned that allowing such activities to continue unchecked could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process and called on relevant authorities to enforce existing laws without fear or favour.
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