Featured

Rivers Mosque Saga: Where Shekarau, Ganduje Misfired

Published

6 years ago

September 2, 2019

If only the distinguished Senator Ibrahim Shekarau and the current Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje had availed the bare facts surrounding the recent saga in which the Rivers State Government was falsely accused of demolishing a mosque, they would not have associated themselves with the rather inflammatory statements from them. Both of them reacted most inexcusably in unison to fake news which was launched through a media spin, that the Rivers State Government had demolished a mosque under construction at the Trans Amadi Industrial Area in Port Harcourt. Sensitive as the story was, it had attracted sharp reactions from far and near, including such from these public officers. Incidentally, theirs went overboard in its unmasked reflection of a deep-seated arrogance that is driven by an adversarial inclination. Many considered their responses as intended to stoke embers of strife, in an atmosphere of amity, ostensibly in pursuit of personal interests. The lie to the story was soon after established by the several authorities including the State Governor Nyesom Wike, Islamic leaders in the state, as well as journalists who visited the siteof the purported demolition.
Among the Islamic authorities that debunked the story was Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor, the National Vice President General, Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs as well as leading light in the person of Ustaz Yahaya, Imam Abdullahi who is the Imam in charge of Bori Central Mosque. Both of them along with others clarified that no such mosque was demolished as falsely reported. Abdullahi went further to clarify that there are presently 130 mosques in the Rivers State, apart from other prayer grounds.
From available facts, the land associated with the phantom mosque, is actually public land on which the government enjoys judicial pronouncement in support of its ownership, as far back as the early 1959 during the colonial era and under the defunct Eastern Nigerian government. Subsequent court rulings also placed authority over the land in the River State Government.
With the truth emerging that the story was fake news, matters were expected to simmer down as there remained nothing to fight over. However, such would not be for these two high ranking public officers as they demonstrated scant restraint to mask their suspect intent, their reactions. Firstly, Senator Shekarau’sremains significant firstly for its undue volatility and patent inappropriateness for a national figure of his pedigree. The statement not only featured scurrilous and unprintable content but was slanted to actually present the author as chasing objectives that are beyond the immediate circumstances of the mosque demolition saga. A specific portion of the statement referred to Wike as manifesting the highest forms of “irresponsibility by a so-called elected official in this polity”. Another section of the statement accused Wike of attempting to “truncate the nation’s democracy” as the development was a “serious security threat”. The statement eventually betrayed its ultimate tendentious intent as it went on to cite misgivings over Wike’s governance style, which was summed up as comprising “reckless utterances and actions”. By the way- Shekarau is of the APC while Wike is of the rival PDP. As for Ganduje also of the APC, he, in characteristic Quixotic style threatened to sue Wike over the fake news.
Needless to bother about further comments on the content of the statement as it is not the intention of this column to celebrate whatever uncharitable mission they were intended for by assisting their sponsors to reinforce same in the public domain. Rather, a more dignified purpose here is to lament over the disappointingly hypocritical and opportunistic stand which the statements have placed Shekarau and his co-traveller Ganduje.
For the purpose of clarification, their antecedents and current positions should have precluded them from such unfortunate outbursts. Each of them was in a position to obtain firsthand information from reliable sources including fro direct contact with the Wike. This expectation – even if lost on Ganduje, many Nigerians would understand. But not for Shekarau who is much more of a national figure than his partner. Shekarauhas been a minister of education, two-term governor of strategic Kano State and now a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria representing Kano Central Senatorial District. Ordinarily he qualifies to be seen and accepted across the country as a voice of moderation, who can successfully intervene in any instance of misunderstanding between any of the various disparate ethnic, religious and cultural interests around the country and effect amicable resolution of same.
That is why his reaction is largely seen as most inappropriate especially since it was based primarily on a false premise. Perhaps, it is taking longer than necessary for the message to sink among the country’s leadership circles that from Maiduguri to Lagos and Sokoto to Calabar, as well as among Muslims, Christians and traditionalists, Nigerians are tired of being used as dispensable cannon fodder to serve the former’s parochial interests and ego massage. This angle remains critical for clarification, as it seems to remain a hangover factor in the political calculus which leaders like Shekarau and Ganduje are still indulging in. However it is important to edify them that Nigeria and the Rivers State have moved on to the next level.
Given the strategic nature of Rivers State in the country’s political economy, it has for generations remained a home to all Nigerians regardless of place of origin, economic status as well as religion. Some of the most strategic investments in the state are easily owned by Muslims business leaders who find security and sweet homely comfort in every part of the state including the riverine locations. Just as well travelled, there are Mosques all over the state with no Muslim complaining of ever being denied the right or place to worship. The level of integration between the Rivers people and the rest of Nigerians is built on mutual bonding between and enhanced by shared values and life styles. That is why the alarmist response by Shekarau and Ganduje failed to elicit any sense of panic among the Muslim community.

Featured

Fubara Frowns At Slow Pace Of Ndele–Omofo–Egmini–Agba-Ndele Road Project ….Says Contract May Be Reviewed

Published

2 weeks ago

November 14, 2025

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed dissatisfaction over the slow progress of work on the 14.5-kilometer Ndele/Omofo/Egamini/Agba-Ndele Road project located off the East–West Road in Emohua Local Government Area.

Addressing newsmen during an inspection tour of the project on Tuesday, the Governor noted that the pace and quality of work being delivered by the contracting firm, Messrs Stream Co. & Equipment Limited, fell below acceptable standards.

He was accompanied on the tour by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, who briefed the Governor on the status of the project and adjoining infrastructure.

Governor Fubara, who appeared visibly unsatisfied with what he saw on the stretch of the road, said his administration would not condone mediocrity or allow public funds to be wasted on underperforming projects. He, therefore, hinted that a review of the contract may be imminent to ensure the delivery of quality infrastructure to the people.

“I can say here already that the contractor handling the road from the bridge to the East–West Road is not doing a good job. I’m not happy about it. When I get back, there will be a need to review that contract because I’m not impressed. They don’t have the capacity, and we need capacity because we must have value for whatever money we’re spending,” the Governor said.

The Governor, however, commended Setraco Nigeria Limited for the standard and pace of work on the 240-meter Agba-Ndele/Abua Bridge, which forms a major component of the project. He explained that the bridge, which his administration inherited, would significantly improve connectivity among communities in the area once completed.

Governor Fubara stated that the bridge will serve as a key link between communities in Abua/Odual, Ahoada-East, and Emohua Local Government Areas, reducing travel time and providing an alternative route to the East–West Road.

He emphasised that the project demonstrates his administration’s commitment to rural connectivity and inter-community access, which are central to his development vision for Rivers State.

“Where we are standing on is a bridge connecting Abua/Odual, Ahoada-East, and Emohua Local Government Areas. The community that is connected to this bridge is Agba-Ndele.

“Instead of running through the East–West Road to Ahoada-East and heading into Port Harcourt or out of it, this bridge provides easy access for the Abua/Odual people to cross into Emohua, Agba-Ndele, and access the East–West Road in minutes,” he explained.

Governor Fubara also expressed optimism that the bridge would be ready for use in early 2026, noting that Setraco’s expertise and performance met his administration’s expectations for quality and delivery timelines.

He highlighted that projects of such importance should be handled by firms with the capacity to meet government standards.

The Governor further remarked that once completed, the bridge would serve as a crucial economic corridor for farmers and traders, especially those involved in agriculture and cultivation of local produce across the beneficiary local government areas.

He maintained that his administration is determined to deliver people-oriented projects that promote connectivity, strengthen commerce, and enhance livelihoods across the State.

“I’m really impressed with what I’ve seen on the bridge. I’m very sure that before the end of January, it might be completely ready for us to walk through and even drive across,” Governor Fubara said.

Reaffirming his vision for Rivers people, the Governor noted that his development plan seeks to integrate all parts of the State through strategic infrastructure investments that promote mobility, social cohesion, and economic growth.

He explained that his government is executing projects across multiple local government areas to ensure balanced development and inclusivity.

Governor Fubara stated that the administration will soon address the deplorable state of the Abua/Ahoada Road, which he said, will be included in the 2026 state budget.

“Our vision is to connect the entire Rivers State together, especially communities that have challenges of access. The bridge here connects Abua/Odual and Ahoada-East to Emohua and Port Harcourt. It will ease movement, promote trade, and boost our economy because agriculture is strong on this side. Moving goods to the city won’t be a problem anymore,” he said.

Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that provides value for public funds and meets the aspirations of Rivers people.

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Fubara Pledges Cleaner Gateway To PH City …Visits New Dumpsite At Igwuruta

Published

1 month ago

October 24, 2025

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has unveiled plans to permanently relocate the dumpsite along the busy Port Harcourt Airport–Obiri-Ikwerre Road, describing the current location as both a public health threat and a damaging first impression for visitors arriving in Port Harcourt, the State capital.

The Governor made this known on Tuesday during an inspection of a proposed replacement site, which is a disused burrow pit near Bambo Estate, off Eneka Road in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area.

The location is being assessed as a potential permanent dumpsite for the State.

Governor Fubara, who was conducted by the Board Chairman, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Dr Samuel Nwanosike, and its Managing Director, Dr Ibimina Wokoma, expressed concern about the environmental and health challenges posed by the existing site, which sits along a major entry point into the State.

“The kind of environmental hazards that we are facing there along the Airport–Obiri- Ikwerre Road; the smell on that road being the entrance into the State, we felt it’s not proper,” he said. “So, we are making alternative arrangements so we can have a permanent refuse dumpsite that meets acceptable standards.

“He added that the government would move swiftly to formalise ownership of the land and complete construction work on the access road to make the new site functional.“We have not concluded the issue of the burrow pit, but the access road, I think the government is doing something about it.

So, I will make sure that everything that needs to be done to ensure government owns this burrow pit is done,” he stated.

Governor Fubara also commended the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) for what he described as a more assertive and improved approach to managing refuse across the State.In addition to the dumpsite inspection, the Governor also visited the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters located in Elimgbu Town, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, to assess the extent of ongoing construction work on the facility.

Featured

Fubara Tasks New SSG On Honour, Service, Protection Of Rivers Interest

Published

1 month ago

October 17, 2025

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has charged the newly appointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barrister Benibo Anabraba, to uphold the dignity of his office, protect the interest of the State, and discharge his duties with honour, respect, and responsibility.

Governor Fubara gave the charge during the swearing-in ceremony of the new SSG, held on Monday at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt.

Describing Anabraba’s appointment as an act of divine favour, the Governor said positions of leadership are not attained by our own human effort but by God’s grace in our lives.

“Let me first congratulate you. I’m using the word ‘congratulations’ because a few of us, not by our power but by the special favour of God, find ourselves in exalted positions. It’s not because we are the best, but only by His grace.”

Governor Fubara noted that the Office of the Secretary to the State Government is one of great honour, occupied by only a few since the creation of Rivers State, and urged the new appointee to serve with humility and dedication.

He, however, expressed confidence in Anabraba’s capacity to deliver, citing his past record as a principal officer of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

“This position is a rare privilege. Guard that office with honour. Discharge your duties with respect. Protect the interest of Rivers State. When you leave office, let it be with honour, and that only comes through responsible service.

“I know you’re a dedicated person. This opportunity is not for show or display of power. It’s a call to duty,” he cautioned.

The Governor emphasised that the current administration is focused on restoring confidence of the people because peace has been achieved in the State.

He enjoined the new SSG to align with the vision of the administration and contribute meaningfully to the collective progress of Rivers people.

“We are emerging from a very difficult period and must reassure our people that we mean well for them, especially now that peace has returned to Rivers State. By the grace of God, do your work well. Help us succeed in this assignment that God has given to us,” the Governor added.