The Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Hon Chukwuemeka Aaron, has given assurance that his tenure would bring peace between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, and advised party faithful to intensify prayers.
Addressing the congregation during the bi-weekly prayer and worship session tagged, “One Hour With Jesus”, at the party’s office on yesterday, Aaron said what was needed to bring enduring peace to both men was consistent prayers.
The acting chairman said enemies of the state were not happy with the cordial relationship that has existed between the FCT minister and the state governor, and were doing everything possible to scatter them, but expressed optimism that with persistent prayers, the plan of the enemies would fail.
Aaron, who said he was happy to talk about Amb Desmond Akawor at any time, noted that throughout Akawor’s stay as PDP chairman, they never had any disagreement, and thanked Akawor for handing over to him with happiness.
“I am very happy to talk about Amb Desmond Akawor. Throughout my working with him, we never had any issue. I thank him for handing over to me with joy. I thank the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike; Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara; and Amb Desmond Akawor; for agreeing that I should take over as acting chairman, because if they didn’t agree, I won’t have been here”, he said.
He warmed those perpetuating crisis in the state to desist, disclosing that the FCT minister and the governor were like father and son, and whatever was between them would soon be resolved.
“For those who are writing, blackmailing, gossiping and spreading false rumours, they need to stop. They should thread with caution because it is a family affair and once it is resolved they would be the looser. People are not happy that this is a PDP state and also a Christian state. Those who want to destroy the state will fail”, he warned.
Aaron, who asked for wisdom, knowledge, grace and understanding to pilot the affairs of the party, solicited the support of the Executive Committee of the party, staff and the entire congregation to enable him succeed.
The acting chairman congratulated Governor Fubara over his victory at both the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Appeal Court, emphasising that the judgement had solidified the unity in the party.
Aaron said PDP had expected nothing than victory due to the massive campaigns the party embarked upon across the state and the overwhelming support it received through the people’s votes during the election.
He also stated that the party was proud that after eight years as governor of Rivers State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Chief Nyesom Wike as FCT minister, adding that with the appointment, the President has shown that he loves Rivers people, and thanked the President for the gesture.
He explained that within few months of Wike’s appointment as minister, many Rivers people have also been given federal appointments, saying that the development had lessen the burden on the governor.
He advised staff to remain committed to their duties and also pray for peace in the state.
“For the staff, you have the capacity, you have shown commitment, you supported Amb Desmond Akawor. I need your support, Exco I need your support. We will work as a team”, he said.
The acting chairman also held separate meetings with staff of PDP office and members of the State Executive Committee.
At both fora, Aaron emphasized on team work, commitment, dedication to duty and loyalty.
Present at the event were the State Secretary, Dr Benibo George; State Woman Leader, Mrs Miriam Ogbonda; PDP Vice Chairman, Rivers South East, his Rivers East counterpart, and state publicity secretary of the party, among others.