Editorial

Hurray, Rivers Is 57!

Published

3 weeks ago

May 27, 2024

Continued from Page 1

The 12 States were North-Western State, North-Eastern State, Kano State, North-Central State, Benue-Plateau State, Kwara State, Western State, Lagos State, Mid-Western State, Rivers State, South-Eastern State, and East-Central State. However, these twelve states have since metamorphosed into thirty-six federated units, giving new and more fundamental relevance to Gowon’s definitive action.
Gowon’s desire to strengthen national unity and prevent more instability led him to seek support for the states’ creation exercise from an extensive cross-section of regional leaders before declaring the enacted order. In the Eastern Region, the whimper for the creation of the Calabar – Ogoja – Rivers (COR) State had risen increasingly vocal. In the North, the Middle Belt movement became a major source of dissatisfaction in the region.
The battle, agitations, and creation of Old Rivers State, now Bayelsa and Rivers, commenced in 1939 and climaxed in 1967. The state as constituted then was under the Eastern group of provinces in 1939 with administrative headquarters in Enugu. The group of provinces later became the Eastern Region of Nigeria, made up of Igbos, as the dominant ethnic nationality with other minorities comprising the region. The minorities included the Ijaw, Ibibio, Efik, Anang, Ogoja, Ikwerre, Ibani, Ekpeye, Engenni, Ogba, Kalabari, Nembe, and Ogoni, among others.
Rivers State in the Niger Delta region is unique. Popularly known as the Treasure Base of the Nation, the State’s uniqueness is not random. The abundance of human and natural resources coupled with its people’s hospitality, makes the State stand shoulder-high among its contemporaries. Gowon’s proclamation of a distinct state was, indeed, a realisation of the vision of the founding fathers. These fathers over several decades, bemoaned the marginalisation by prominent ethnic groups in the Nigerian project. This was particularly the Igbos, who cohabited the then Eastern Region with its capital in Enugu.
Starting with its first Military Governor, Navy Commander Alfred Papapriye Diete-Spiff in 1967 to the present administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, successive administrations, both military and civilian alike, have made significant contributions to making the state the enviable one it is today. From the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996 to the exponential growth in the education sector, human capital development, infrastructural revolution, health sector development, national political relevance, active participation in the global economic renaissance and bold presence on the world entertainment stage, Rivers State can indeed be said to have come of age.
Perhaps except for the epoch of the pioneer administration, at no other time in history has the state experienced such a level of transformation of its landscape as is being realised under the present administration. From an extensive urban regeneration effort that has seen the rebuilding of state-owned assets and city roads to meet present-day needs and the building of vast road infrastructure in all parts of the state, the current administration is truly working hard to realise the objectives of the state’s founding fathers.
By the efforts of the state government, Andoni and some adjoining communities have been made accessible to the state capital by road. The same fortune is soon to be enjoyed by erstwhile disconnected people of the Kalabari Kingdom through the commencement of the second phase of the Trans-Kalabari Road. By the same token, a courageous move has been initiated to create more urban centres in the state. This is done through the siting of essential projects.
The political class in the state, in particular, must utilise this event of the 57th Anniversary of the state’s creation to evaluate and determine to eschew bitterness, rancour and acrimony and work with the Fubara-led administration. The struggle for Rivers State achieved the desired results because the political elite, traditional rulers and the youth of the time shared a rare and uncommon sense of oneness, purpose, selflessness and indeed drive for service to the fatherland.
That widely acclaimed Rivers’ spirit of love and commitment to selfless service have waned greatly, leaving in their stead, a threat to public peace activated by political greed, selfishness and an unguided quest for personal aggrandisement far and above love for the state. The clarion call is, therefore, for leaders at all strata to introspect and purge themselves of all tendencies that are inimical to the overall development and prosperity of the state.
We must remind ourselves, especially the political class, that it took selfless sacrifices, personal denials and unrelenting activism from foundational leaders. This was achieved for us in the state we now call home. All must embrace peace, tolerance, and true brotherliness and seek civil and lawful means to address all grievances and disagreements. This is because strife, violent confrontations and aggressive engagements will only destroy the time-enduring bonds of togetherness that have bound our people for years.
The founding fathers’ relentless struggle to question the imbalance and injustice of the Nigerian Federation remains the philosophy behind the state’s creation. Their mission and vision was to ensure Rivers State’s pride of place in Nigeria. The question remains, however, whether that vision has been achieved or not. More than any other time in our history, the need to re-enact and revive the values, sentiments, philosophies, and spirit that formed the driving force of the founding fathers to victory is now.
The Tide extends its heartfelt congratulations to the esteemed government and people of Rivers State on the auspicious occasion of the 57th Anniversary of the state’s creation. All stakeholders must rally together to pursue the common goal of ensuring that the state remains a safe haven, where security, peace, prosperity, and unimpeded opportunities for happiness reign supreme for all its inhabitants and the business community.
Today also holds a special importance not only as the day we celebrate the birth of our dear state, but also the day we honour our precious children, known as Children’s Day. This occasion is dedicated to celebrating the innocence, joy, and dreams of our little ones. It is a time to reflect on the necessity of nurturing, protecting, and investing in their future well-being.
Children are the future of our society, and on this special day, we acknowledge their unique contributions and remind ourselves of their inherent rights and needs. It is an opportunity to recommit to creating a world where every child has access to quality education, healthcare, and a safe and loving environment. By celebrating Children’s Day, we not only honour our children but also invest in the future of our nation and the world.
The event serves as a reminder that children are not just miniature adults but individuals with their own thoughts, feelings and perspectives. It is essential to listen to their voices, respect their opinions, and provide them with the support and guidance they need to thrive. When we empower our children, we equip the future generation to become responsible, compassionate, and active citizens who will shape the country for the better.

Editorial

Democracy, Losing Its Relevance

Published

5 days ago

June 12, 2024

The Tide

Twenty five years of democracy in our country have unfortunately brought about a culture of insecurity due to various factors such as ethno-religious bigotry, power imbalances, institutional collapse, corruption, and economic decline. Despite the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election being hailed as the freest and fairest, the promises of hope and progress have not been fully realised. This raises the question of the necessity for Democracy Day and democracy in general.
Given the current challenging circumstances, Nigeria needs to build on its past successes and strive towards becoming a leading democratic nation. There is no time to waste, as the Human Development Index shows real room for improvement. The state of petroleum refining, which serves as the country’s main economic foundation, has declined rapidly and requires immediate action. Additionally, the unprecedented depreciation of the national currency must be addressed.
The escalation of corruption within the nation is a pressing issue that continues to worsen, especially with the blatant looting of state funds by politicians. The actions of various administrations have shown autocratic and draconian tendencies, often displaying a lack of accountability and respect for the rule of law. The authorities must address this growing problem and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Nepotism and cronyism have become widespread, with individuals using their influence to secure competitive political positions for their family members. This practice goes against democratic principles and undermines the merit-based system. Additionally, there has been a rise in industrial actions, such as strikes initiated by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which further disrupt the democratic process.
It is time for Nigerians to shift their focus from lamenting to taking action towards progress. Nigeria is a country rich in potential and resources, and it is unacceptable for us to continue to be held back by the current state of affairs. Rather than dwelling on past mistakes, we must come together to reflect on our challenges and take decisive steps towards rebuilding a better future.
Furthermore, it is essential to understand the importance of June 12 in relation to leadership and utilise these lessons to accomplish our goals. One key takeaway is the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in ensuring fair and unbiased elections. INEC must view this responsibility as both a duty to the nation and a moral imperative.
Another valuable takeaway is that politicians must view their political positions as a service to the nation rather than a means for their advancement. It is critical for political participation to be approached with ethical and moral principles at the forefront, as it holds essential societal value.
June 12 serves as a reminder of the vital role leadership plays in making tough decisions that may not always align with personal beliefs. It highlights the need for courage and the ability to prioritise the greater good over personal interests. This lesson is particularly relevant for Nigeria’s current government and its officials, who must engage with the public and make decisions that benefit the country.
The lessons of June 12 are a reminder for all Nigerians, especially lawmakers, who have the duty to protect democracy. Unfortunately, there has been a departure from the core principles of democracy in Nigeria, with disrespect for the rule of law and judicial processes, blatant impunity, and a disregard for human rights and dignity. We must reflect on these lessons and work towards upholding democracy and the values it stands for.
Political leaders and public service managers have to provide the necessary tools for our lawmakers to rejuvenate democratic practices. Legislators need to be intellectually, emotionally, psychologically, and physically prepared to succeed. They should demonstrate a strong understanding of democratic principles and values, a willingness to engage with constituents, and an openness to different perspectives to advance democracy.
We cannot overstate the importance of June 12, as it reveals the link between Nigeria’s present social, economic, and political challenges and the corrupt ruling class, as well as the indifferent middle class. As we commemorate Democracy Day today, we must empower ourselves to not only recognise but also utilise our power to decide and mold our future.
Nigerians should ensure that political aspirants go through genuine democratic processes to exercise their freedom. Citizens must be educated on their civic responsibility and mentor youths towards social engagement. The people should also hold local government administrators accountable for the purpose of implementing result-driven policies.
All must adopt an active role in government at all levels. Community leaders and young people can collaborate to organise peaceful protests, petitions, and marches when infrastructure is not up to par. Obtaining a voter card and participating in elections is required to prevent corrupt political figures from forcing unqualified candidates into office.
Civil society played a vital role in the struggle for rights during the military dictatorship, and their achievements should inspire us today. It is essential for the current generation to take up the mantle and strive for justice and equality. The media must act as a watchdog against tyranny and protect the public interest.
Youth are often the most let down group in society, and it is time to act. The #EndSARS protests demonstrated the determination, articulateness, and composure of young activists. Quitting is not an alternative – they must step up and take charge. They should draw inspiration from the courageous youth in South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, who continued their fight despite facing harsh repression from their governments.
There is a need for Nigerians to assert their rights and sovereignty through all legal means possible. Neglecting to do so will lead to a deterioration of the current situation and the eventual downfall of the state. We must uphold the ideals of June 12 as a representation of our democratic hopes and utilise it as a unifying factor for genuine national unity.

Editorial

Fubara’s Scorecard: So Far, So Good

Published

3 weeks ago

May 31, 2024

The Tide

One of the primary issues that the federal and state governments have been facing recently is the increasing cost of living, mainly caused by the depreciation of the naira. This has resulted in financial difficulties for many Nigerians, leading to demands for the leaders to seek out new sources of revenue apart from oil. They need to be creative and adopt tactics that can enhance their revenue sources and ease the financial strain on their people.
However, the past year in Rivers State had been a whirlwind of events, with the government working diligently to bring happiness to the people. Governor Siminalayi Joseph Fubara has addressed numerous challenges despite the ongoing political crisis that presents a huge obstacle for the administration. This situation is worrisome and has the potential to shift any leader’s focus away from their goal of serving the people, no matter how well-intentioned.
Fubara believes that development is not just a matter of chance, but a conscious effort to address the needs of the people. Over the past year, he has initiated numerous development projects with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for residents. Since taking office on May 29, 2023, he has been proactive in realising his vision for the state. He is ensuring that his plans are carried out efficiently by appointing capable individuals to key positions.
His determination to bring his vision to life was clear when he presented a bill to the Rivers State House of Assembly for approval of his legacy project – the Port Harcourt Ring Road. The 50.15 km dual carriageway project, estimated to cost N200 billion, aims to connect six local government areas in the state. It will feature six flyovers, a river crossing bridge, and 19 rotary intersections and roundabouts, with the goal of fostering the development of new cities and easing traffic congestion in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas.
To celebrate his first year in office, the Rivers State Government set aside 20 days for a series of activities. The Governor inaugurated and launched 10 projects in various local government areas as part of the festivities. The event kicked off on May 14th with the inauguration of the Ebubu-Eteo (old Bori) Road, providing an alternative route to the Eleme axis of the East-West Road.
Several projects have been officially launched in Rivers State, including the Elele–Omoku Road, Emohua–Kalabari (Tema Junction) Road, Okania–Ogbogoro Road, and Trans-Kalabari Road Phase II. Projects that have been commissioned include the Ogoni–Andoni–Opobo Unity Road (Andoni Section), Egbeda internal roads, Phase I of the Port Harcourt Electrical Village and the flag-off of its Phase II, as well as the dualised Omoku–Egbema Road. These projects are focused on enhancing infrastructure and connectivity in the state, offering improved transportation options for residents and driving economic development.
An economic summit was organised in the state to boost internal revenue, attract investors, and create employment opportunities for the youth. Beyond improving infrastructure, there is a focus on revitalising the civil service, and hiring 10,000 new employees. The government has allocated N4 billion to support businesses in the nano sector and small and medium enterprises, providing funding ranging from N400,000 to N10 million each. This initiative is being carried out through the Rivers State Micro Finance Agency and Nigeria’s Bank of Industry for technical support.
Another vital achievement that sets His Excellency Fubara apart is the astronomical increase in the monthly Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state since May 29, 2023. The administration has successfully raised the IGR from N12 billion to N27 billion monthly, representing an increase of over 100 per cent. This impressive growth trajectory suggests that the annual IGR is on track to reach N324 billion.
Before His Excellency, Sir Fubara, assumed office as governor in May 2023, the annual IGR of Rivers State in 2022 was N172.8 billion, with an average monthly IGR of N14.4 billion, as reported by Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). In 2021, the state’s annual IGR was N123.3 billion, averaging N10.3 billion per month. The IGR was N117.2 billion in 2020 and N169.6 billion in 2019.
Notwithstanding the numerous challenges, the Governor has made considerable progress in education by implementing innovative measures in schools and providing a new convocation arena for the University of Port Harcourt. He has also shown commitment to the welfare of the people by providing free buses to offset the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
Local government employees have received their promotions, minimum wage, and wage bonuses. Fubara’s timely visit to the state secretariat complex underscores his dedication to public service as a crucial element in government operations. The complex, currently undergoing renovations, now boasts functional elevators, lighting, and water supply. Despite the huge debts left by the last administration, the Governor has assured that he would complete all projects that benefit the people, which were initiated by previous administrations.
The accomplishments achieved by the present government in just one year of rule are unparalleled. The rapid progress in infrastructure development within such a short period is a clear indication of his capability, despite various attempts to derail his efforts. Fubara recently informed Rivers people that true governance only commenced three months ago, when he decided to confront his predecessor’s challenges head-on.
Undoubtedly, the Governor’s leadership embodies qualities such as patience, wisdom and a commitment to peace, essential for conflict resolution and unity in Rivers. Under his guidance, there is hope for a future, marked by progress and prosperity, devoid of discord and division. As we mark this critical milestone, we implore all to prioritise peace, forgiveness and inclusiveness.