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RSG Clears Air On Arrest Of Caverton Pilots …Accuses FG Of Politicising Efforts To Prevent COVID-19 Spread …As Nsirim Affirms Wike’s Commitment To Care Of Underprivileged
The Rivers State Government has stated that the story being carried in some media that the two pilots and 10 passengers of Caverton Helicopters who were arrested by the state government because they acted to the directives of the Ministry of Aviation, is misleading.
Stating this in a press briefing, last Saturday, the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim, said that on the contrarily, the arrest was made because the pilots repeatedly disobeyed the Executive Order of the governor to the effect that everyone coming into the state must present themselves for health checks to determine their Coronavirus status.
According to Nsirim, “Contrary to the view being peddled by the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, the two pilots of Caverton Helicopters and their 10 passengers were not arrested because they operated a permit granted them by the Ministry of Aviation.
“They were arrested because they constantly contravened the Executive Order issued by the Governor of Rivers State, Chief Nyesom Wike, which requires that everyone coming into the state for essential duties subject themselves to mandatory health checks to ascertain their Coronavirus status”.
He stated that before their arrests, the Rivers State Government had issued several warnings to Caverton and other operators to ensure that their pilots and passengers are tested by Rivers State Health Authorities, but that Caverton Helicopters had disregarded the warnings.
“At the last count, Caverton Helicopters ferried over 220 passengers into the state without allowing health professionals of the Rivers State Government ascertain their Coronavirus status. They also refused to avail the state government their contacts, so they can be traced and tested”, he said.
While stating that the state government was more committed to the protection of the lives of over six million Rivers people, rather than issue landing permits to airlines, or contending for the control of the airspace, Nsirim said, “The issue on ground has nothing to do with the Exclusive List.
“The focus of the Rivers State Government is to ensure that nobody under the guise of transporting workers on essential services, ferry in persons who will compromise our health system. Therefore, these pilots and passengers must be subjected to health checks before they carry out their responsibilities. That is standard practice”.
It is for the same reason, Nsirim noted, that the Federal Government has isolated Chinese doctors they invited into the country to assist in the fight against the Coronavirus.
“The Federal Government, as we speak, has quarantined Chinese doctors who are in the country on invitation of the operators of the Exclusive List. These Chinese doctors will be isolated for 14 days as a precaution before they mix with Nigerians. If the Federal Government has done that in Abuja for Chinese officials that they invited, why do they insist that persons coming into Rivers State must enter the state without health checks?”, Nsirim asked.
He noted that, given the foregoing, the aviation minister’s claim that the arrest was effected because Caverton Helicopters’ operations were based on permit granted them by the Ministry of Aviation amounts to an “indecent and reckless politicisation of the fight to check the spread of Coronavirus by agents of the Federal Government, especially as it relates to Rivers State”.
The information boss added that, “From all indications, it is clear that there is a plot to compromise the health of Rivers people. Otherwise, what is the motive for the grandstanding and the sponsorship of false editorials to mislead Nigerians by agents of the Federal Government?
“The Rivers State Government urges the Federal Government to direct all their business associates to subject themselves to health checks to ascertain their Coronavirus status. On this premise, the Rivers State Government is not prepared to compromise.
“The safety of Rivers people is beyond any other consideration. No amount of yellow journalism will diminish the leading role Governor Nyesom Wike has provided the entire country since the outbreak of Coronavirus.
“Governor Wike, through the various prevention strategies he had initiated, has demonstrated to the entire world that he is prepared for leadership. The truth is that it is in time of crisis like the whole world is facing now, that you know genuine leaders.
“The Rivers State Government respects the rule of law and has acted within the ambit of the law,” he added.
Meanwhile, as the lockdown on markets alongside the stay-at-home order by the Rivers State Government continues, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim, has assured that the underprivileged people living and doing business in the state would be catered for.
Making this known, last Saturday, during the distribution of food items to the people of Ward 18, Nkpolu-Oroworukwu in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, as part of palliative measures by the state government, the commissioner stated that it was part of the governor’s commitment towards alleviating the suffering of the downtrodden in the state.
“The governor of Rivers State said that he has seen the hardships the people of Rivers State are facing, because of COVID-19, and as a man, who has sworn an oath to protect lives and properties of Rivers people; he would do all within his powers to ensure that nobody suffers from hunger in this period. This is what a visionary leader would do”, he said.
It is in pursuant to this stance, Nsirim explained that the governor has taken various steps in not only checking Coronavirus infection in the state since it came to the fore in Nigeria, and food items are made available to the downtrodden.
“You will recall that since this Coronavirus broke out in Nigeria, the Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, has played a leading role in showing leadership in terms of strategies for prevention and other things. Right now, he is also showing leadership in terms of catering for the downtrodden and less privileged in the state”, the commissioner stated.
He noted further that for this purpose, the governor had set aside the sum of N2billion to ensure that “no matter where you are in Rivers State, as long as you live and do business in Rivers State, you’ll not die of hunger. There’s a committee that he (governor) has set up again to purchase all the foodstuffs that are produced in Rivers State: yam, garri, plantain, fish, etc. All those things that are edible that Rivers people like to eat, that committee is going round now in all the LGAs in Rivers State to buy them”.
While expressing appreciation over the leadership style of the governor, Nsirim also noted that Rivers people in Diaspora, in countries such as the United States and United Kingdom, have at various times, expressed the same appreciation since news of COVID-19 broke out in Nigeria.
Receiving the food items on behalf of the ward, a religious leader, Prophet Michael Ichemati, expressed gratitude to the governor, and promised that they would ensure the food items get to the needy in the ward.
Ichemati said: “I want to use this opportunity given to me to express our gratitude to our governor, who has been so much forthcoming to reach out to the people. We want to also thank the committee for their time, and, having seen what they have presented to the ward, we want to say God will reward you all.
“We’re promising that what you have given to us today will get to those that need it most. We sincerely appreciate what you people have given to us. God bless you”, he added.
In his response, the state Commissioner for Transport, Sunny Ejeku, who is a member of the ward, said “This is my community, this is my ward, and I know the impact of what HE has done will create in the lives of the people here. When you give a man food, you’re preserving his life. The COVID-19 pandemic has come with all other side effects, most of which have to do with complaint of hunger. Social distancing has to be maintained.
“Thank God that His Excellency has the drive and the leadership style, which he has employed to save the lives of Rivers people”.
On his part, the traditional head of the ward, Eze Omunakwe Innocent Ejekwuaka, also thanked the governor for the food items, praying that God should grant him more ideas to cater for the needy.
Also present at the presentation were the Councillor of the ward, Henry Ichemati, and the Women Leader of Oro-Obaziolu Community, Madam Mercy Orlu.
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We’re Working To Improve Quality Of Life Of Rivers People -Fubara …As Taraba Gov Inaugurates 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja Roads Project
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to render quality service that will improve the quality of life of residents, and strengthen the platform to promote unity.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance at the Okania-Ogbogoro Road junction, venue of the inauguration of the 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja (and Mgbuoba) Roads project in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, yesterday.
The road cuts across Okania community through Ogbogoro, and connects Port Harcourt Ring Road project under construction, and was inaugurated by the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas.
Governor Fubara said that during the campaigns, he saw the roads in terrible condition, made a promise to fix them, and noted that that promise has been kept.
He emphasised that his administration will never be reckoned with abandoning of projects that it started, which is why he is particularly excited that the road has been fixed to ease the inconveniences suffered by the people.
The Governor said, “What we are doing here today is very simple: Promise made, promise fulfilled. I told you that whatever we are going to start, we are not going to leave it halfway. So, we have come here this afternoon to fulfill that promise.
“I am so excited, and I am so happy. I am leaving here with so much joy that we have done something that has so much impact, and importance in the lives of our people. So, I feel very fulfilled. Government is about the people. Government is knowing, understanding and seeing what you can do to make life easy for your people.
“We understand the situation of this road. Fortunately, I have a few friends who also live around here. So, there is nothing you will say that I don’t know. As a government, we will continue to do those things we know will make life easy for you.”
The Governor thanked members of the communities in the area for their support to his administration, and also for cooperating with the contractor to ensure completion of the project.
He assured the people that their request for the rehabilitation of the Community Secondary School and Health Centre, will be looked at and addressed immediately, saying, “Our government is a government that takes the interest of our people very seriously.
“There is no government without the people. It is only the people that keep the government going. So, what we will continue to do is to make sure that the problems and interest of our people are top on our list,” he assured.
Performing the inauguration, Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, said roads are not just physical infrastructure but represent a commitment to facilitate ease of transportation, boost local commercial activities and improve quality of lives for the people of Rivers State.
Dr Kefas noted that Governor Fubara has provided the people good roads, and like other good roads, it will serve as an artery of development, further connecting communities, enhancing access to essential services while unlocking economic potentials.
He said, “By completing this project, Your Excellency has, once again, demonstrated the transformative impact of visionary leadership. When I was coming in with the Governor on a ride, I saw the joy, the happiness of the voiceless people who were abandoned and neglected in this area, coming out to wave and welcome us.
“It wasn’t a hired crowd. Everybody, those who couldn’t make it to this place, in front of their homes, they were waving at us, and I was telling the Governor: this is all about good governance. He listened to the people, and solved their problems. So, it shows that he is doing the right thing, and I want to thank you, my brother, for what you are doing for the good people, especially the poor people even in difficult times.”
Governor Kefas further said: “As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of collaboration and shared vision among us as Governors. Together, we can inspire our people, improve their lives, and create lasting legacies in our respective states.”
Providing the project description, the State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, recalled that when it was flagged-off in May, 2024, the project was for a 5km stretch but was extended in October, to include Mgbaraja axis, increasing the length to 6.55km, explaining that the 10.3 meter wide, and 5km of drains road, has now linked Apara Kingdom to Nkpor Kingdom.
In his address, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amb Chijioke Ihunwo, described the road as a very significant route that was abandoned for years until Governor Fubara intervened and fixed it, promising that Obio/Akpor people will not take the gestures of the State Government under Governor Fubara for granted.
Speaking on behalf of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the firm that handled the project, Eric Shen, said they are happy to be part of the infrastructure development strides of Governor Fubara, stating that though the rains posed significant challenge, they have delivered quality road network to serve the connectivity needs of the people.
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We’ll Implement Judicial Commission’s Report On Arson, Killings -Fubara …Says Such Violence Must Stop In Rivers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured of implementing the recommendations of the report submitted to him by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Arson, Killings, and Wanton Destruction of Property at some local government council headquarters on or around Monday, October 7, 2024.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance when the seven-member commission, led by the Chairman, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, submitted four volumes of reports of their investigation and recommendations to him at Government House in Port Harcourt, yesterday.
The Governor declared that his administration will neither tolerate nor allow such level of violence in the State anymore because it is not profitable or productive.
He said, “We are not going to be part of any system that would encourage any destruction in this State. And for that reason, we had to inaugurate this commission, so that this commission should look into the remote and immediate causes of this problem.
“And I believe that the recommendations of this commission, with the help of God and the support of everyone, we will make sure that we implement the recommendations.”
Governor Fubara said: “We are going to take it to the next stage. The report will be presented to the Executive Council, and there, we will surely come out with the White Paper and with the White Paper. I can assure you, we are going to follow it to the end.
“Nobody is above the law, including me. So, provided what we are doing is within the confines of the law, we will do it with the help of every one.”
Governor Fubara recalled how, before 2014, a group of persons had ran wide recklessly in the State, burning down court buildings.
He noted that it is such persons, who had recently surfaced with their destructive tendencies, and have extended the violence to local government councils, killing people and destroying government property.
Governor Fubara wondered why somebody will spend so much money to build a structure intended to last as legacy of the administration but would eventually be part of its destruction in the name of politics.
Governor Fubara clarified that he has never been part of such destructive politics that continue to set the State backwards and frustrate progressive development strides.
Governor Fubara said: “I make bold to say it, I have never been and will never be a party to anything that will bring shame, disgrace, destruction to our dear State.
“It is our State. If it is well with us, it will be well with everybody. As a matter of fact, why should I encourage destruction, when I know that when you finish spoiling things, you still need money to rebuild them.
“I am an accountant, I know the importance of how we can manage money. Rather than spoil, you should use that money to do a new thing for the State.”
Governor Fubara vowed: “So, I am going to ensure that we put a stop to that level of violence or such unreasonable violence. I call it unreasonable violence because it doesn’t mean anything in politics.
“Politics is a business of interest. There is no permanent friend, no permanent enemy. Some persons who were not even in our support, today, they are here following us because their interest is the most important thing.
“Likewise tomorrow, if the interest changes, they will also go their different ways. So, why burn down the house?”
Governor Fubara thanked members of the commission for being bold, focused, and accomplishing their task with determination in the face of physical and legal threats.
In her presentation, Chairman of the seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, said they had put their findings into four volumes, including the recommendations.
Justice Minakiri explained: “We have here four volumes of the report. We have the memoranda, which is the memoranda we got after we made our publications.
“We also have the exhibits that came with the memoranda. We have the proceedings and the records. At the end of the day, we came up with the main report.”
Justice Minakiri advised that the recommendations of the report should be studied and implemented so that people can be deterred from such callous acts and the sought-after peace secured for the State.
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We Are Eager To Showcase The Best Of Rivers State -Fubara …Declares Federation Of Public Service Games Open
The Rivers State Government says it is committed to providing a memorable experience for all delegates participating in the Federation of Public Service Games(FEPSGA) hosted by the State Government.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara stated this during the opening Ceremony of the 43rd Edition, Public Service Games, titled ”Simplified Rivers 2024″, at Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt, last Sunday.
Speaking through his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Governor Fubara said “Our hospitality is renowned and we are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment, we have everything in place to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.”
Governor Fubara said to ensure the success of the games his Administration has put in place comprehensive plans and preparations with four venues approved for the events which include the Sharks Stadium, Alfred Diette -Spiff Civic Centre, Port Harcourt Club and the University of Port Harcourt.
The State Chief Executive urged participants to remember that the true spirit of FEPSGA goes beyond winning medals, stressing that it is about building bridges of friendship, fostering a sense of community and celebrating our diversity.
According to him, we envision a public service that is more productive, more efficient and more effective, a future where public servants are empowered to deliver exceptional results driven by a culture of excellence, innovation and teamwork.
The Governor reiterated that while a healthy mind and body are essential for high productivity, regular physical activity boosts our mood, increases energy levels and enhances our cognitive function. We are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment.
In her address Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who spoke through Dr.(Mrs) Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Interior Commended Governor Fubara for hosting this year’s event, and for his dedication to promoting sports and fostering unity in the country.
She noted that the event which serves as a platform for furthering unity, camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst public servants, was a celebration of their shared commitment to excellence, resilience and service to the nation.
Also speaking the National President of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA), Comrade Amaebi Aloku, said Rivers State got the nod to host the annual event because the Federation was pleased with the vision of Governor Fubara in identifying with the needs of the Civil Servants in the State, in terms of their welfare and being one of the first State to implement the new minimum wage and even taking it above what was approved by the national.
Earlier the Head of Service Rivers State, Dr George Nwaeke had welcomed all participants to the State and expressed gratitude to the Governor for approving and making available the resources to host the games, noting that it was an opportunity to interact with all Civil Servants across the nation.
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