Ariolu Charges Communities On Safeguarding, Maintenance Of Govt Amenities

The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Barrister George Ariolu, has said that communities should cultivate the culture of proper safeguard and maintenance of amenities provided by government to ease the standard of living of people.
He urged traditional rulers, youth leaders and residents to ensure they guard these amenities jealously to promote effective and efficient usage.
Ariolu gave this charge at the Council Headquarters, Rumuodomaya while presenting transformers to Rumuekini, Mgbuoba and Choba communities, respectively, last Thursday.
The chairman said that the procurement of the 500KVA transformers would improve the quality of living and ease of doing business amongst residents and business operators in line with his administration’s vision.
Ariolu, who urged traditional rulers to spearhead campaign for peaceful coexistence in their various domains, called on them to continue to support the programmes and policies of the council to improve welfare of residents.
He also advised them to encourage business operators within their domain to pay up their taxes and levies to the council.
Ariolu added that the taxes would assist the council in generating funds to boost development in the area.
“You requested for transformers and we’re here to fulfil the requests, although we have other projects and programs we’re carrying out but this is in line with our administration’s focal thrust, to serve the people to the best of our ability and to do things that have direct impact on the people.
“As we present these transformers to you, they become your personal property. We admonish that you take care of these properties. If you protect it well, it will last longer. I urge you to support the programs of governance by continuing to maintain peace within your domain because without peace, there is no development.
“Encourage people who do businesses in your domains to pay their taxes and levies to the council, that way….we can generate funds to accomplish other projects for the benefit of the people.
“Come to the council to pay your taxes, the council gate is always open, avoid paying to illegitimate source. Even if demand notice is served to you, you have the right to come to the council and enquire if they are legitimate”.
Speaking further, Ariolu further encouraged the visitors to defend and uphold the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, describing him as a worthy Son who has projected Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality to the highest level.
According to Ariolu, who conducted the traditional rulers round ongoing construction sites in the council, “no governor has initiated new projects in his second tenure except the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike.”
On his part, Paramount Ruler of Choba Community, Eze Raymond Webilor Okocha, described Ariolu as a man in a class of his own, adding that his administration was unparalleled and unrivalled.
He said, “For every issue and complaint made in the LGA, you have attended to them promptly. You have left nothing behind. As traditional rulers, we are saying that you are second to none.”
“The transformer is to help our people and we will look after it. You’re making your personal appraisal and we’re proud of you,” he added.

By: Nelson Chukwudi