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Exploring Ministerial Retreat On Education

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9 years ago

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Following an alleged directive from the Presidency, the embattled Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris has reportedly ordered the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Zaki Ahmed to sack the police outrider in the convoy of the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike involved in last Saturday’s infraction at Nwaja Junction in Port Harcourt with the convoy of Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi.
The Tide recalls that the minister had reportedly knocked down the police outrider at the junction during a routine project inspection by Governor Nyesom Wike.
Sources told The Tide, yesterday that the outrider was facing an Orderly Room Trial as at press time at the office of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, at Moscow Road in Port Harcourt.
It was gathered that the SARS personnel in Amaechi’s convoy have already testified against the police outrider following the IGP’s directive on the Rivers CP to investigate the incident.
However, attempts to get the comments of the Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Police Command, Nnamdi Omoni, proved abortive as at the time of going to press.
Meanwhile, the Chairman, Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bro Felix Obuah has said that the attack on Governor Nyesom Wike’s convoy, last Saturday, while on inspection tour of ongoing construction works in Port Harcourt by security agents attached to the Transportation Minister, Chibuike Amaechi, was a deliberate ploy by the minister to instigate crisis in the state.
The Tide recalls that the security details comprised the Army and police led by the Commander of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in the state, CSP Akin Fakorede.
Obuah, in a statement in Port Harcourt, the state capital, described the incident as condemnable, act of lawlessness, impunity and primitive, insisting that the untoward action was orchestrated by Amaechi, who has taken it as a task to undermine the office of the governor of Rivers State, using security agencies of the Federal Government, particularly, SARS and the Army.
The state PDP boss expressed surprise that security agents being paid and maintained with tax payers’ money (public fund) could be so loose as to be used at will by people to undermine a sitting governor and Chief Security Officer of the state while the police high command and the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government look the other way.
This, according to Obuah, contrasts with the change mantra and anti-corruption war being taunted by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.
“A situation where the state chief executive is constantly vilified, aspersed and persecuted for offering his people quality leadership whose achievements only in two years in office surpass all the achievements of the immediate past administration put together for eight years. What else do we need to see, hear or experience to conclude that the APC is evil and does not wish the Nigerian people well? Here in Rivers State, the achievements of Wike are reverberating and have caught world attention, hence, the undertaking to stall his rising political profile by Amaechi and his co-travellers. God will never allow them to succeed”, the state PDP boss prayed.
Obuah, however, thanked Wike for his display of maturity during the incident by not fighting back lest they find occasion to allege insecurity in the state to back up their plot and call for a state of emergency in Rivers State.
He also warned that Wike’s peaceful disposition must not be mistaken for weakness, stressing that Rivers people have been watching with keen interest the conspiracy of the APC-led Federal Government to exterminate the governor because of personal and self-seeking interest.
Obuah, therefore, called on Buhari and the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, to wade into the activities of the security personnel in Rivers State, particularly, the SARS Commander, Akin Fakorede, before it’s too late, because, according to him “to be warned is to be for armed”.
While addressing journalists on the matter, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Zaki Ahmed claimed that there was no trace of assassination threat against the state Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike and the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi following the incident, last Saturday.
Zaki stated in his office, last Monday, that the essence of the briefing was to intimate the public on the real and ideal situation of the matter.
“I have called this meeting to clear the air on allegations and counter-allegations making the rounds of alleged assassination plot by two notable figures in the country, in the persons of the Governor of Rivers State, Chief Nyesom Wike and Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, following a minor traffic infraction along Nkpogu roundabout, Port Harcourt.
“For purposes of putting the records straight and in view of the public outcry in the media which greeted these claims, I hereby clarify that “On Saturday, November 11, 2017, at about 1500hrs at Nkpogu junction, while the minister of transportation was passing through Elekahia to Nkpogu, and at Nkpogu roundabout, a police outrider in the convoy of the governor intercepted the black Lexus 750 Jeep the minister was driving just, as it was about negotiating the roundabout. The outrider was there to make way for the oncoming convoy of the governor, which was about 400 metres away,” the commissioner stated.
It would be recalled that the attack, which took place at Nwaja Junction at Trans-Amadi, Port Harcourt during the governor’s project inspection, led to the knocking down of the governor’s outrider and attack on the Pilot 1 driver by the SARS men under the instruction of their Commander, CSP Akin Fakorede at the behest of Amaechi.

Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike (left), with former Deputy National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and national chairmanship aspirant, Chief Olabode George (middle) and Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Engr. Emeka Woke, during the aspirant's visit to the Government House, Port Harcourt, last Monday.

Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike (left), with former Deputy National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and national chairmanship aspirant, Chief Olabode George (middle) and Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Engr. Emeka Woke, during the aspirant’s visit to the Government House, Port Harcourt, last Monday.

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Fubara Reaffirms Commitment To Peace, Development

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5 days ago

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May 29, 2026

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Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as Rivers State marked its 59th anniversary, last Wednesday.

 

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary, Governor Fubara stated that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of Rivers State have continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation.

 

The Governor noted that the strong bond of brotherhood among the various ethnic nationalities of the state, including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari, and others, remains one of Rivers State’s greatest strengths and a critical foundation for peace, stability, and progress.

 

He further observed that Rivers State has remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, not only because of its abundant oil and gas resources, but also because of the exceptional contributions of its people across diverse sectors including academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.

 

Governor Fubara assured the people that his administration will continue to prioritize policies and programmes that promote peace, protect lives and property, and expand development across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance must be people centered and impactful, with equal attention given to every Local Government Area of the state.

 

The Governor also paid tribute to the elders and founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity and coexistence over the years, while urging the youths to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively committed to building a greater Rivers State through innovation, hard work, and patriotism.

 

He equally acknowledged the invaluable role of women in strengthening families, communities, and society, describing them as indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of the state.

 

Governor Fubara called on all Rivers people to use the occasion of the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress, stressing that the unity and future of Rivers State must always rise above personal interests and political differences.

 

Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, by General Yakubu Gowon.

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Nigeria’s 27 Years of Civil Rule Journey

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5 days ago

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May 29, 2026

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Nigeria returned to civil rule on May 29, 1999, after several years of military intervention in politics. The transition marked a major turning point in the nation’s history and raised hopes for freedom, stability, economic growth and accountable leadership. Citizens expected that elected governments would strengthen institutions, improve living conditions and unite the country after years of authoritarian rule. Twenty-seven years later, civil rule has survived without interruption, making it the longest uninterrupted civilian administration since independence in 1960.
Since 1999, Nigeria has witnessed six administrations at the federal level. Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007, followed by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 2007 until his death in 2010. Goodluck Jonathan served from 2010 to 2015, while Muhammadu Buhari led the country between 2015 and 2023. Since May 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office. Though democracy has remained stable, governance outcomes have produced mixed reactions among Nigerians.
The country has made some notable progress over the past 27 years. Democratic institutions such as the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties and the media have become stronger than they were during military rule. Elections are now regular, though still imperfect. Telecommunications, banking, entertainment and digital technology have expanded greatly. Nigerian youths have also become more politically aware and active. The country’s economy, despite its difficulties, remains one of the largest in Africa.
However, many of the expectations that came with democracy remain unmet. Corruption, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and poor infrastructure continue to trouble the nation. Public confidence in government institutions has weakened over time because many citizens believe political leaders have not done enough to improve their welfare. Ethnic and religious tensions also remain major challenges. While democracy has endured, good governance has not always matched the hopes of the people.
President Tinubu’s administration began with bold economic decisions aimed at reforming the nation’s finances. His government removed fuel subsidy and unified the foreign exchange system. Supporters argue that these measures were necessary to reduce waste and attract investment. The government also increased revenue allocation to states and sought to improve tax administration. Yet the immediate impact has been severe hardship for millions of Nigerians. Inflation, high transport costs and the falling value of the naira have placed enormous pressure on households and businesses.
In education, the Tinubu administration has promised reforms through student loan schemes, support for technical education and efforts to reduce strikes in tertiary institutions. Some progress has been recorded with the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, public schools still face poor funding, inadequate facilities and shortage of teachers. Many students continue to struggle with rising school fees and declining quality of education.
The health sector under the current administration has also recorded both efforts and challenges. Government has pledged to improve health insurance coverage. Nevertheless, hospitals across the country still suffer from inadequate equipment, shortage of medical personnel and brain drain as doctors and nurses continue to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. Access to affordable healthcare remains difficult for many rural communities.
The power sector remains one of Nigeria’s biggest disappointments after nearly three decades of democracy. Despite repeated promises and reforms, electricity supply is still unstable. Businesses and households spend heavily on generators and fuel. The Tinubu administration has introduced policies aimed at decentralising power generation and encouraging investment, but ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel significant improvement in electricity supply.
The rising cost of living has become the greatest concern for many Nigerians today. Food prices, transportation costs and rent have increased sharply. Though the Federal Government introduced palliative programmes and cash transfer initiatives to cushion the effects of reforms, many citizens believe the interventions have been inadequate or poorly distributed. There is growing demand for more effective social protection programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.
On national security, the government continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Security agencies have recorded some successes in parts of the country, yet insecurity remains widespread. Farmers in many rural communities still face attacks, affecting food production and increasing fear among citizens. Regional stability in West Africa has also become more uncertain due to political crises in neighbouring countries. Nigeria continues to play a leading diplomatic role in the region, but internal security challenges weaken its influence.
In infrastructure and other key sectors, the Tinubu administration has continued several road, rail and housing projects inherited from previous governments. Investments in ports, gas and digital technology have also been encouraged. In agriculture, government has promoted mechanised farming, dry season cultivation and access to credit. Yet food insecurity remains high because insecurity, inflation and poor rural infrastructure continue to affect agricultural productivity. Nigeria still imports many food items despite its vast agricultural potential.
To improve national conditions, the Federal Government must place greater attention on job creation, industrialisation and support for small businesses. More investment is needed in agriculture, healthcare, education and electricity. Anti-corruption institutions should be strengthened while government spending must become more transparent. Leaders must also prioritise national unity and reduce political divisions. Nigerians expect reforms that produce visible improvements in their daily lives, not only policy announcements.
In Rivers State, the 27 years of civilian rule have produced substantial development alongside political tensions. The state has remained economically important because of its oil and gas resources. Different administrations since 1999 have invested in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and urban renewal projects. However, political conflicts and struggles for power have often affected governance and slowed development in parts of the state.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara assumed office in May 2023 amid high expectations and intense political disagreements. In infrastructure, his administration has initiated projects such as massive road construction, bridge rehabilitation and urban development schemes in parts of the state. Ongoing works on major roads and public facilities have been presented as efforts to improve transportation and economic activities. Critics, however, argue that political instability in the state has distracted government’s attention from faster project delivery.
In education and health, the Rivers State Government has continued support for public schools and healthcare centres. Efforts have reportedly been made to improve learning environments and sustain payment of workers’ salaries. In health, there have been interventions in hospitals and primary healthcare services. On security, the administration has worked with security agencies to maintain peace, although political tensions in the state have created uncertainty. In the civil service, workers and pensioners have largely continued to receive salaries, stipends, and welfare support. The state government has also shown interest in agriculture and power development, though these sectors still require stronger investment and clearer long term strategies.
Going forward, Rivers State needs greater political stability to achieve meaningful development. The government should focus more on rural roads, youth employment, agricultural expansion and uninterrupted healthcare services. Investments in independent power projects and industrial development would help attract businesses and reduce unemployment. Above all, political leaders in the state must place the interest of the people above personal or factional battles. Democracy can only succeed when governance delivers peace, development, and hope to ordinary citizens.
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WASSCE: RSG Distributes Science Materials To Secondary Schools

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3 weeks ago

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May 13, 2026

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The Rivers State Government has distributed science equipment and materials to all senior secondary schools across the state to support students during the ongoing West African Examinations Council exams and to strengthen practical learning.

Flagging off the distribution at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board premises in Port Harcourt, on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, said the move demonstrates Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to improving education standards in the State.

 Nwagor said the materials were approved and provided by the state government specifically to boost the teaching and learning of science subjects, describing science education as the foundation for technological advancement, innovation, and national development.

“No society can compete globally without deliberate investment in science and technology,” the Commissioner stated.

He commended the governor for consistently prioritising the education sector by providing tools needed for effective teaching and hands-on learning.

The Commissioner directed principals to ensure that the equipment are used strictly for practical lessons in their schools, warning that any principal or administrator found diverting, hoarding, or selling the materials wil face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

 Nwagor also warned against examination malpractice,  saying any principal found aiding or encouraging malpractices will be decisively sanctioned.

“We must collectively restore the dignity and credibility of our educational system,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, Tony Egwurugwu, urged school heads to make judicious use of the materials for students’ benefit.

He thanked the State Government for providing the resources, and assured that monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the materials serve their intended purpose.

In his own remarks,  a Board Member for Technical Education, Nwisabari Bani Samuel, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising education and acknowledged the Commissioner’s role in advancing education development in the State.

He  said the distribution covers all senior secondary schools in the State and is intended to improve students’ performance in both internal and external science examinations.

Akujobi Amadi

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