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Obio/Akpor, Degema, Christian Women Endorse Wike …Your Votes ’ll Make The Difference, Wike Tells Christians

Published

7 years ago

February 11, 2019

Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has charged Nigerians to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) across the country for Nigeria to return to the days of performance and development.
Addressing thousands of supporters during the PDP Campaign Rally at Obio/Akpor Local Government Area last Saturday, Governor Wike said that it is only under the PDP that sustained development can take place.
He said: “PDP is not a party of excuses. It is a party founded on development . It is a party of performance. That is why Nigerians must return to the PDP”.
The governor urged the people of Rivers State to vote massively for Atiku Abubakar for the revival of the seaports killed by the non-performing APC Federal Government in the state.
“Atiku Abubakar through quality economic policies will revive the Trans-Amadi Industrial Estate and the two seaports in Rivers State.
“Atiku Abubakar will create jobs and ensure that the government works for the good of all Nigerians”, he said.
While acknowledging Obio/Akpor as the Local Government Area with the highest number of registered voters in the state, Governor Wike urged the people to cast 90percent of their votes for the PDP and her candidates.
Governor Wike advised PDP members to ensure that the party wins all the 359 polling units of the Local Government Area. He said that political patronage would be based on winning of polling units.
“You must deliver your polling unit. Victory of the polling unit is the ticket to political appointments. We don’t want to hear any excuse that your polling unit result was snatched. You must protect the results “, he said.
The governor advised the people not to be deceived by INEC claims that they will organise credible polls. He said they should remain vigilant to protect their votes.
He said that the PDP remains sure of victory in Rivers State because his administration has satisfied the people.
Speaking further, Governor Wike said only those who have impacted positively on the state should contest elections or promote candidates. He said as a Minister he attracted development to the state. He wondered why the Minister of Transportation has failed Rivers People, despite his opportunities in the failed APC Federal Government.
Director General of Rivers State PDP Campaign Council, Ambassador Desmond Akawor said that all across Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, the projects of Governor Wike are a testament of his performance
Rivers State PDP Chairman, Bro Felix Obuah said that the rally is a mass affirmation of the Governor’s acceptance by his people. He said that rally is more than a local government gathering.
He presented PDP Candidate for Rivers East Senatorial District, Senator George Sekibo, PDP Candidate for Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, Kingsley Chinda, PDP Candidate for Obio/Akpor State Constituency 1, Martins Amaewhule and PDP Candidate for Obio/Akpor State Constituency 2, Mr Michael Chinda to the people and asked them to vote for them.
PDP Candidate for Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, Kingsley Chinda said the governor has sold himself to Nigeria and Nigeria to the world. He said that the people are happy for the governor and his commitment to the development of the state.
He assured the people that all the legislators will represent the area effectively at the State and National Assembly.
Former President of the NBA, Chief Onueze Okocha lauded Governor Wike for his outstanding projects delivery and declared that he deserves re-election.
He said that the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area with the highest number of registered voters will vote all PDP candidates during the forthcoming general elections.
Former Attorney General of Rivers State, Mr Frank Owhor said it is the desire of the people to re-elect Governor Wike for the continuation of his good works.
Commissioner of Health, Prof Chike Princewill said that the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area will use the elections to make a statement of their preference for Governor Wike and the PDP.
President General of Grassroots Development Initiative, Bright Amaewhule said that the rally is a rehearsal of the victory party after the Governor’s re-election.
Chairman of PDP in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Chukwuemeka Aaron assured that the people would vote for Governor Wike and defend their votes.
Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Mr Solomon Eke said in all parts of the Local Government Area, Governor Wike has left his imprints of projects and performance.
Ace Musician and Port Harcourt First Son, Duncan Mighty thrilled the crowd with his songs.
Meanwhile, leaders and people of Degema Local Government Area have declared that they will work round the clock to ensure the re-election of Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike.
The leaders spoke at the PDP campaign rally in Degema yesterday, where they said all structures of the party have been energized to deliver Governor Wike in the 130 Polling Units of the area.
They said that key projects have been executed across Degema Local Government Area to improve the living condition of the people.
Deputy Governor Ipalibo Harry Banigo described Governor Wike as a true leader who is Kalabari friendly. She hails from the area.
She said the Rivers State Governor has blessed Degema people with key projects. She thanked Governor Wike for keeping faith with her as his running mate.
“Since the creation of Rivers State, no woman has been deputy governor. In your tenure, you made it possible for a woman to be deputy governor”, she said.
She said that Degema people have decided that they would use their permanent voters cards to re-elect Governor Wike.
PDP Candidate for Bonny/Degema Federal Constituency , Doctor Farah Dagogo said Niger Delta people believe Governor Wike as an exceptional leader of the region. He said Niger Delta people are prepared to make sacrifices for Governor Wike to remain a leader of the region.
Former Degema Local Government Chairman, Mr Abiye Davids said that the PDP remains the only functional political party in the area.
Commissioner of Energy and Natural Resources, Elder Damiete Hebert Miller said that the Governor and Deputy Governor are a match for victory. He expressed gratitude to the Rivers State Governor for his outstanding projects delivery. Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, Dr Tony Philmoore said that Degema people are working round the clock to re-elect Governor Wike.
Chairman of PDP Degema Local Government Area, Chief Tonye Tyger thanked the Rivers State Governor for his love for the area which led to the retention of Deputy Governor Ipalibo Harry Banigo as his running mate.
Rivers State PDP Chairman, Bro Felix Obuah presented PDP Candidate for Rivers West Senatorial District, Mrs Betty Apiafi, PDP Candidate for Bonny/Degema Federal Constituency , Doctor Farah Dagogo and PDP Candidate for Degema State Constituency, Soberekon Raymond to Degema people and asked them to vote for them.
Addressing the rally, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike assured Degema people of more projects in the area.
The governor stated that his administration after consulting leaders of Degema Local Government Area, will elevate a traditional stool to first class status.
He called on Degema people to overwhelmingly vote for Atiku Abubakar for the transformation of the country.
He said for the people of Rivers State, Atiku Abubakar remains the best option because he has already started investing in the state.
Governor Wike stated that Atiku Abubakar will facilitate job creation for the teeming youths of the country.
“Voting for Atiku Abubakar will generate more jobs for the country and revive the economy. For us in Rivers State, he is the best option “, he said.
He said the struggle ahead is to fight to overcome the forces of darkness and dictatorship. He said all Nigerians must be united to make progress in this regard.
Governor Wike said that a vote for PDP will translate to freedom and development, noting that all PDP candidates deserve the votes of the people.
On the PDP Presidential Rally on Monday, Governor Wike urged the people to mobilise PDP to make the desired statement to the entire country.
Highpoint of the occasion, was the defection of hundreds of APC members to the PDP.
Similarly,thousands of Rivers Christian Women from the 23 Local Government Areas of the state have endorsed the re-election of Governor Nyesom Wike.
The women under the aegis of Women’s Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) declared that they are happy with the performance of Governor Wike since 2015.
Leader of Women’s Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) , Pastor Mrs. Ene Secondus said all Christian Women will use their permanent voters cards to support Governor Wike.
“We are here to publicly endorse the Re-election of Governor Wike. He has worked for Rivers State and enhanced the development of the state.
“All our permanent voters cards are dedicated to ensuring that the Rivers State Governor gets a second term. The state will benefit from his second term “, he said.
While thanking Governor Wike for constructing the Christian Ecumenical Centre for the unity of Rivers Christians, she said Christian Women are happy that Governor Wike has declared that Rivers is a Christian State.
She said that Governor Wike has made Christian Women to love his style of leadership and they are always praying for him.
They called on Governor Wike to as part of his educational programmes to indigent women by sponsoring adult women education in the state.
According to the Rivers Christian Women, their support for Governor Wike is borne out of passion and commitment to the development of the state.
Mrs Secondus announced that the women will also support the PDP Presidential Candidate and all other PDP candidates during the elections.
Responding, Governor Wike thanked Rivers Christian women for their overwhelming endorsement of his re-election.
Governor Wike said that it is incumbent on women to work for the bright future of the state and the country, hence they must guide their families to support PDP candidates.
“I am happy with the way that you have come to show your support for us this morning. This is a step in the right direction. The mobilisation is awesome “, he said.
He said all Christians must be concerned on the direction of the country, so that they can team up with other stakeholders to halt the nation’s free fall.
“Today, the level of insecurity in the country is horrible. People are being killed everyday. As Christians, we must be concerned about our future and destiny. When things are wrong, everyone is affected “, he said.
Governor Wike urged the women to use the opportunity of the elections to ensure a positive change in the country.
“This is a period that we must take a decision on the future of the country. We must make sacrifices by setting aside the election days of voting and defending our votes. No trading, farming or working on those days. We should reserve them for voting.
The governor charged the women to take up the role of voter mobilisation by talking to family members to turn and vote for the PDP.
He explained that only through such campaign will they enthrone Atiku Abubakar who will enhance security, employment opportunities and economic development.
“If you allow this government to continue at the Federal Level, then you are digging your graves. I will not dig my grave and you will not dig your grave because we have the opportunity to sack this failed APC Federal Government.
“You must cast your vote. You must exercise your right and vote out this bad government. Vote out the failed APC Federal Government and vote for PDP”, he said.
He urged the women to be agents of peaceful polls. He said as mothers, they should prevail on their children not to be used as killers or purveyors of violence.
The governor announced that his administration will embark on the vigorous promotion of Adult Women Education.
The women sang several endorsement songs to promote the candidacy of Governor Wike.
Special prayers were said for the success of the PDP during the elections. The women also prayed for the peaceful conduct of the polls.
In another development, Chief Nyesom Wike has called on Christians to troop out and vote during the forthcoming elections, because their votes will make the difference.
Speaking during a Special Combined yesterday Worship Service at the Deeper Life Camp Ground, Rumudara, Port Harcourt, Governor Wike said Nigerian Christians can no longer stand aloof while the country slides into destruction.
He said that Christians should not believe the false propaganda that they cannot influence the outcome of political contests in the country.
“You must vote during the forthcoming elections. If you don’t vote and a bad leader emerges, you are part of those that brought that bad leadership.
“Your vote can make the difference. So go ahead and vote to effect a positive change”, he said.
He charged the Church not to allow the Children of God to be surrounded by those not supposed to be in charge of leadership of the country.
The governor said that all Christians have witnessed first-hand the failures of the last four years of the Federal Government which have destroyed the economy, engendered unemployment, insecurity and dictatorial tendencies. He said this is the opportunity to chart a new direction.
Governor Wike said that all efforts of Christians to ensure that the country makes progress would be crowned when they vote for their preferred choice.
He appealed to Christians to continue to pray against those plotting electoral violence and bloodshed in Rivers State.
He said: “Please pray for this state. Pray against those plotting electoral violence in this state. Pray for the state to have peaceful and credible polls. Those plotting shall be disappointed.
“None of my supporters should engage in political violence on my behalf. Nobody should use violence to support me”.
The governor stated that security agencies plotting bloodshed in Rivers State will be consumed by their plot and Rivers State will emerge victorious.
He further urged the Church to pray for the Judiciary. He said Christians should pray that God enables Judges to act right despite the intimidation and false propaganda by the failed APC Federal Government.
The Deeper Life Camp Ground Youth Choir Ministered to the congregation in a Special number where they declared that they are no longer slaves to sin and fear, but children of God.
In his remarks, State Head of Deeper Life Church, Pastor Chike Onwuasunya said truly Governor Wike is Mr Project as his projects are visible.
He said that since 2015, Deeper Life Church in the state has been praying for the success of Governor Wike. He said the Church will always remain committed to praying for the state.
He declared that all those making prophecies and preaching violence against Rivers State will witness the peaceful elections. He said all evil plans will fail.
He urged Deeper Life members to vote to determine the positive direction of the country.
Prayers were said for the Rivers State Government, Governor Wike, his family and the peaceful conduct of credible elections.
The Adult Choir also ministered at the Church Service declaring freedom for the Children of God.

Featured

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment To Peace, Development

Published

2 weeks ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as Rivers State marked its 59th anniversary, last Wednesday.

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary, Governor Fubara stated that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of Rivers State have continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation.

The Governor noted that the strong bond of brotherhood among the various ethnic nationalities of the state, including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari, and others, remains one of Rivers State’s greatest strengths and a critical foundation for peace, stability, and progress.

He further observed that Rivers State has remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, not only because of its abundant oil and gas resources, but also because of the exceptional contributions of its people across diverse sectors including academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.

Governor Fubara assured the people that his administration will continue to prioritize policies and programmes that promote peace, protect lives and property, and expand development across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance must be people centered and impactful, with equal attention given to every Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor also paid tribute to the elders and founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity and coexistence over the years, while urging the youths to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively committed to building a greater Rivers State through innovation, hard work, and patriotism.

He equally acknowledged the invaluable role of women in strengthening families, communities, and society, describing them as indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of the state.

Governor Fubara called on all Rivers people to use the occasion of the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress, stressing that the unity and future of Rivers State must always rise above personal interests and political differences.

Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, by General Yakubu Gowon.

Editorial

Nigeria’s 27 Years of Civil Rule Journey

Published

2 weeks ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Nigeria returned to civil rule on May 29, 1999, after several years of military intervention in politics. The transition marked a major turning point in the nation’s history and raised hopes for freedom, stability, economic growth and accountable leadership. Citizens expected that elected governments would strengthen institutions, improve living conditions and unite the country after years of authoritarian rule. Twenty-seven years later, civil rule has survived without interruption, making it the longest uninterrupted civilian administration since independence in 1960.

Since 1999, Nigeria has witnessed six administrations at the federal level. Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007, followed by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 2007 until his death in 2010. Goodluck Jonathan served from 2010 to 2015, while Muhammadu Buhari led the country between 2015 and 2023. Since May 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office. Though democracy has remained stable, governance outcomes have produced mixed reactions among Nigerians.

The country has made some notable progress over the past 27 years. Democratic institutions such as the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties and the media have become stronger than they were during military rule. Elections are now regular, though still imperfect. Telecommunications, banking, entertainment and digital technology have expanded greatly. Nigerian youths have also become more politically aware and active. The country’s economy, despite its difficulties, remains one of the largest in Africa.

However, many of the expectations that came with democracy remain unmet. Corruption, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and poor infrastructure continue to trouble the nation. Public confidence in government institutions has weakened over time because many citizens believe political leaders have not done enough to improve their welfare. Ethnic and religious tensions also remain major challenges. While democracy has endured, good governance has not always matched the hopes of the people.

President Tinubu’s administration began with bold economic decisions aimed at reforming the nation’s finances. His government removed fuel subsidy and unified the foreign exchange system. Supporters argue that these measures were necessary to reduce waste and attract investment. The government also increased revenue allocation to states and sought to improve tax administration. Yet the immediate impact has been severe hardship for millions of Nigerians. Inflation, high transport costs and the falling value of the naira have placed enormous pressure on households and businesses.

In education, the Tinubu administration has promised reforms through student loan schemes, support for technical education and efforts to reduce strikes in tertiary institutions. Some progress has been recorded with the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, public schools still face poor funding, inadequate facilities and shortage of teachers. Many students continue to struggle with rising school fees and declining quality of education.

The health sector under the current administration has also recorded both efforts and challenges. Government has pledged to improve health insurance coverage. Nevertheless, hospitals across the country still suffer from inadequate equipment, shortage of medical personnel and brain drain as doctors and nurses continue to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. Access to affordable healthcare remains difficult for many rural communities.

The power sector remains one of Nigeria’s biggest disappointments after nearly three decades of democracy. Despite repeated promises and reforms, electricity supply is still unstable. Businesses and households spend heavily on generators and fuel. The Tinubu administration has introduced policies aimed at decentralising power generation and encouraging investment, but ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel significant improvement in electricity supply.

The rising cost of living has become the greatest concern for many Nigerians today. Food prices, transportation costs and rent have increased sharply. Though the Federal Government introduced palliative programmes and cash transfer initiatives to cushion the effects of reforms, many citizens believe the interventions have been inadequate or poorly distributed. There is growing demand for more effective social protection programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.

On national security, the government continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Security agencies have recorded some successes in parts of the country, yet insecurity remains widespread. Farmers in many rural communities still face attacks, affecting food production and increasing fear among citizens. Regional stability in West Africa has also become more uncertain due to political crises in neighbouring countries. Nigeria continues to play a leading diplomatic role in the region, but internal security challenges weaken its influence.

In infrastructure and other key sectors, the Tinubu administration has continued several road, rail and housing projects inherited from previous governments. Investments in ports, gas and digital technology have also been encouraged. In agriculture, government has promoted mechanised farming, dry season cultivation and access to credit. Yet food insecurity remains high because insecurity, inflation and poor rural infrastructure continue to affect agricultural productivity. Nigeria still imports many food items despite its vast agricultural potential.

To improve national conditions, the Federal Government must place greater attention on job creation, industrialisation and support for small businesses. More investment is needed in agriculture, healthcare, education and electricity. Anti-corruption institutions should be strengthened while government spending must become more transparent. Leaders must also prioritise national unity and reduce political divisions. Nigerians expect reforms that produce visible improvements in their daily lives, not only policy announcements.

In Rivers State, the 27 years of civilian rule have produced substantial development alongside political tensions. The state has remained economically important because of its oil and gas resources. Different administrations since 1999 have invested in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and urban renewal projects. However, political conflicts and struggles for power have often affected governance and slowed development in parts of the state.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara assumed office in May 2023 amid high expectations and intense political disagreements. In infrastructure, his administration has initiated projects such as massive road construction, bridge rehabilitation and urban development schemes in parts of the state. Ongoing works on major roads and public facilities have been presented as efforts to improve transportation and economic activities. Critics, however, argue that political instability in the state has distracted government’s attention from faster project delivery.

In education and health, the Rivers State Government has continued support for public schools and healthcare centres. Efforts have reportedly been made to improve learning environments and sustain payment of workers’ salaries. In health, there have been interventions in hospitals and primary healthcare services. On security, the administration has worked with security agencies to maintain peace, although political tensions in the state have created uncertainty. In the civil service, workers and pensioners have largely continued to receive salaries, stipends, and welfare support. The state government has also shown interest in agriculture and power development, though these sectors still require stronger investment and clearer long term strategies.

Going forward, Rivers State needs greater political stability to achieve meaningful development. The government should focus more on rural roads, youth employment, agricultural expansion and uninterrupted healthcare services. Investments in independent power projects and industrial development would help attract businesses and reduce unemployment. Above all, political leaders in the state must place the interest of the people above personal or factional battles. Democracy can only succeed when governance delivers peace, development, and hope to ordinary citizens.

Featured

WASSCE: RSG Distributes Science Materials To Secondary Schools

Published

4 weeks ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Government has distributed science equipment and materials to all senior secondary schools across the state to support students during the ongoing West African Examinations Council exams and to strengthen practical learning.

Flagging off the distribution at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board premises in Port Harcourt, on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, said the move demonstrates Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to improving education standards in the State.

Nwagor said the materials were approved and provided by the state government specifically to boost the teaching and learning of science subjects, describing science education as the foundation for technological advancement, innovation, and national development.

“No society can compete globally without deliberate investment in science and technology,” the Commissioner stated.

He commended the governor for consistently prioritising the education sector by providing tools needed for effective teaching and hands-on learning.

The Commissioner directed principals to ensure that the equipment are used strictly for practical lessons in their schools, warning that any principal or administrator found diverting, hoarding, or selling the materials wil face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

Nwagor also warned against examination malpractice, saying any principal found aiding or encouraging malpractices will be decisively sanctioned.

“We must collectively restore the dignity and credibility of our educational system,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, Tony Egwurugwu, urged school heads to make judicious use of the materials for students’ benefit.

He thanked the State Government for providing the resources, and assured that monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the materials serve their intended purpose.

In his own remarks, a Board Member for Technical Education, Nwisabari Bani Samuel, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising education and acknowledged the Commissioner’s role in advancing education development in the State.

He said the distribution covers all senior secondary schools in the State and is intended to improve students’ performance in both internal and external science examinations.

Akujobi Amadi