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  • Rivers crisis: Akpabio knocks Fubara, PDP

    Rivers crisis: Akpabio knocks Fubara, PDP

    • Says gov can’t run state by ostracising Speaker, lawmakers

    • Explains why President made ex-Rivers gov FCT minister

    • Wike: I’m not bothered by criticism; Tinubu’s backing enough for me

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio yesterday faulted Rivers State Governor Siminialayi Fubara on his handling of the political crisis in the state, which has pitted him against Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, the Speaker and the majority of the members of the State House of Assembly as well as many stakeholders of his own party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, said a wise governor or President must forge a close relationship with the legislature.

    The Senate President spoke as Special Guest of Honour at a Public Lecture and Book Launch held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital to mark the FCT Minister’s 57th birthday.

    Wike himself said criticism from his political opponents meant nothing to him as “the support Mr President is giving to me is enough for me.”

    “I do not require anything. The moment I know that my Mr. President is happy, the moment I know that my family is happy, the moment I know that my friends and associates are happy, what is my own? I just go on,” he told the audience that spilled from the hall onto the popular Sani Abacha Road and adjoining streets in the Government Reservation Area.

    The lecture entitled Pragmatic Strides of a Visionary Leader and Contemporary Issues of Society, attracted thousands of Wike’s loyalists, friends and associates from different parts of the country and various walks of life.

    The event was organised by the NEW Associates, a new political movement coined from the initials of the minister’s names, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike.

    Akpabio, who recognised Martins Amaewhule at the event as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, reminded Fubara of the power of the legislative arm.

    Amaewhule leads the 27 state legislators loyal to Wike.

    Akpabio said he realised as governor between 2007 and 2015 that in a duel between the governor and the legislative arm, the governor could be hurt by the other side, hence he had to fashion out ways to work with the Speaker during his tenure.

    “For those of you who may not understand politics, we were taught that the parliament can turn a woman into a man and a man into a woman. As a governor, my greatest fear was my House of Assembly,” he said.

    Read Also; TARABA CHURCH CRISIS: Warring parties in fresh battle for control of headquarters

     “So because of that I never travelled anywhere without my Speaker. Any time I didn’t see him for a day, I would send somebody to his house to invite him to come and have a lunch with me, and I used ideas to look at his face to know whether he was happy with me or not.

    “The only place that can hurt a governor is the House of Assembly, and no court or democracy can stop that from happening. Any President that wants to survive like Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu must hold the Speaker and the Senate President very closely the way he is holding us.

    “Recently he conferred on us GCON, Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger. Whether he loved it or not, he did it.”

    Akpabio wondered why, despite all the resources at the disposal of Fubara, he had not been able to woo some of the 27 lawmakers in the camp of Wike.

    He deplored what he called politics of betrayal and treachery, saying such trend was affecting sustainability in governance.

    His words: “I do not know what is happening in Rivers State, but I hope that the successor of Wike realises the fact that no matter how the bird flies, the legs are pointing to the ground.

    “Something must be wrong. Today is not for politics. Today is for Nyesom Wike.

    “But sometimes I wonder, I would never be the governor, given the resources of Rivers State, and then I disagree with my House of Assembly and I am not able to poach at least one member out of the other group.

    “If I do not do that, it means that there is something wrong with my political philosophy.

    “I do not care what people say. We must try to stop this politics of betrayal and politics of treachery, because it does not allow for good succession.

    “Prof Julius Ihonvbere (Guest Lecturer and Majority Leader of the House of Representatives) in everything you said here, the word that was missing was ‘sustainability’.

    “You cannot have sustainability in good policies and governance when the person taking over from you is interested in not destroying you alone but destroying everything that you built.

    “If you are a politician, note, you must have opposition as people oppose you, they are also the step you can use to go higher.”

    Akpabio, however, said when politicians served with dedication, passion, confidence and with open heart, God would lift them higher.

    Turning to Wike, he said he did not become the FCT Minister by chance but that the position came because of his hard work as governor of Rivers State.

    Continuing, he said: “I was discussing with one of my colleagues and I told him I do not know why a man will quarrel with Wike; if he shouts while we are sitting here, by the time I get to that door he has forgotten.

    “He will be the one to carry his phone and call me and say ‘when are you coming to the house for lunch?’ And he has forgotten that we quarreled and I will tell him, after the quarrel?”

     Akpabio, whose remarks drew intermittent laughter from the audience, said the multitude of people at the occasion was a testimony to the quality of life that Wike lives.

    Citing the Minister’s performance in the FCT, the Senate President said Wike has transformed the federal capital by building roads in different parts of the city where such were never thought possible before.

    He added: “Born in tumultuous year of 1967 when the fabric of our nation was being tested in conflict, you emerged, not in the safety of calm waters but amidst the storm itself when Nigeria was just beginning the war.

    “The war entered inside you, the war of transformation, the war of infrastructural renaissance and the war of love for Rivers State.

    “If the Rivers people do not appreciate you, please begin to love Akwa-lbom State. We appreciate you. Niger Delta appreciates you and South-South appreciates you.

    “The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, appreciates your work. The Government of APC appreciates you.”

    He then mocked the PDP, saying only a progressive party like the APC would honour the likes of Wike.

    “The truth is that in PDP, you do not deserve a man like Wike. That is why we are all waiting to grab him so you people can continue with those who would continue to betray,” he said.

    Turning to Wike, he said: “You might have chosen to arrive at a calm period but instead you came forth when Nigeria was at war.

    “It is perhaps this very fortitude that has shaped your character and had allowed you rise like an eagle, soaring high above the tempest that could defeat you.

    “Your dedication to lifting communities as a governor, now as a minister, has left indelible marks on our nation’s history. 

    “The bridges you have constructed stand as testament to your commitment to progress and unity.

    I recognised the fire within you long before when you became local government chairman of Obio-Akpor. You are indeed a great secret waiting to be unveiled; waiting for the nation to behold.

    “Your contributions to the political landscape of Nigeria, especially during your days as governor, shine like a beacon of hope. Many will now say that you have done better now as minister that when you were a governor.

    “As a leader of uncompromising integrity, speaking truth in every facet of life, even to higher authority, circumstances will not allow me to say all I would want to say. But one of them is ‘agreement is agreement’. 

    “You remind us that politics is not only about policies procedures but also about the people, about laughter, about comradeship, about remembering your friends but not forgetting your enemies and the shared joy of community and communal living.

    “May this birthday, my brother, bring you as much joy as you have bestowed on many others and may you embrace even more adventures in service to our beloved country.”

    I am not bothered about criticism, says Wike

    Wike appreciated the NEW Associates and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Senator George Sekibo, for putting the event together, saying he was not bothered about criticism from a few people.

    “For me, in life, what is important is, if you know what you want to do, and you know how you want to do it, then you go ahead. One thing that I can assure all of you here is that we will continue to make you proud.

    “I will never be distracted. I will still be focused to achieve the results that Nigerians will know that Mr. President means well.

    “Yes, so many people have talked about criticism. I can assure you, it is even people who inform me that people are criticising me.

    “Frankly speaking, because I do not see them and I don’t hear them and I cannot reply them.

    “I have told most of you, do not bother about criticism. What is important for you is to ask yourself if you are focused or you are doing what is expected of you to do.

    “I tell them, the moment your enemies see that you do not listen to them and you are focused and are there to achieve results, they will be tired. And when you are being distracted, you are worried they will say yes, they have now gotten you.

    “The only way that you can silence your critics is to show them your result. Show them your performance. I am happy that when we were coming last night, I saw the flyovers being painted, I said thank God, so there was work that they are now painting?

    “I said thank God there was work that is being painted now. I have said if you are not important, nobody will talk about you.

    “So, the support Mr. President is giving to me is enough for me. I do not require anything.

    “The moment I know that my Mr. President is happy, the moment I know that my family is happy, the moment I know that my friends and associates are happy, what is my own? I just go on.

    “If you cannot match up with what we have done, why not come out and say look, let the truth be told.

    “I do not see anybody that will intimidate or threaten me. I have not seen that person. At the appropriate time we will talk politics. Now is for projects and projects in the FCT.”

    We are standing by you, PDP tells Wike

    Speaking at the event, the Deputy National Chairman (South) of PDP, Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja, said despite the antics of some persons with entitlement mentality in the party, majority of the people in PDP love and appreciate the minister.

    He said such party members are with “one of the most committed and most loyal party leaders ever produced in PDP.”

    He said: “Our mentor and principal that we are celebrating today who has never left PDP for a day is one of the most committed, most loyal party leaders we have ever had. He has done well and he is doing well and we wish him well in future endeavors.

    “He is somebody who believes in equity, justice and fairness. Remember before the 2023 election, he sang a famous song.

    “I used to follow my leader and Osun State Governor Seyi Makinde. Our leader, I still remember the G5 and I am telling you that many people in PDP appreciate you.

    “We love you because you are always there for us not only when you need anything unlike some leaders who come running to us when they need something.

    “We know you and we always love you and we appreciate you. Some people believe in entitlement mentality. We will always stand by you because you led the G5. You are a man of integrity, a man of honour and you are a performer.”

    Arapaja, however, disagreed with some of the remarks made by Akpabio against PDP and wondered why the Senate President whom he described as a product of the PDP could attack his party of origin.

    He said: “I am surprised when someone who is a product of the PDP will come here and say those things. I do not understand.

    “Nobody can dispute the fact that the present Senate President was a governor of Akwa-lbom State under the PDP, and he performed.”

    In the lecture, Prof Ihonvbere said Nigeria’s main problems of insecurity, unemployment, poor infrastructure, corruption, religious and ethnic tensions as well as poor educational facilities were not beyond resolution.

    “Our problems can be solved. The Nigerian ruling class in fraction will be ashamed that it has not managed any of our problems successfully.

    “We have created millions and billions but their legacies are hardly sustained. It is not lack of resources but management. Fixing Nigeria is not rocket science. It requires focus and staying the cause.”

    The Chairman of the occasion and former President, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), OCJ Okocha, described Wike as a superlative performer with a Midas touch.

    “This is a man that we have given to Nigeria and we are proud to be his friends and associates.

    “I want to thank us all for organising this public lecture in his honour. Knowing him, he would have opposed it, but I think the pressure on him was too much that his friends won the day and said let us honour you,” he said.

  • Gov Fubara procures six gunboats to secure oil installations

    Gov Fubara procures six gunboats to secure oil installations

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has handed six gunboats to the Nigerian Navy to enhance the security of oil installations and tackle sea piracy along the waterways.

    Fubara said that securing steady growth of the national economy, dependent largely on crude oil production and sales, demanded sustained support to the security agencies to enable them win the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism

    Fubara spoke shortly before handing over six security surveillance 400 horse-powered gunboats and three separate units of bungalows for Senior Officers’ Quarters and rating Bofor’s accommodation donated by his administration to the Nigerian Navy on Friday.

    The event, which took place at the NNS Pathfinder, Rumuolumeni in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, had the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla present to receive the donation of the government.

  • Fubara procures six gunboats to secure oil installations, tackle piracy in Rivers

    Fubara procures six gunboats to secure oil installations, tackle piracy in Rivers

    …CNS unveils gunboats, housing projects

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has handed six gunboats to the Nigerian Navy to enhance the security of oil installations and tackle sea piracy along the waterways.

    Fubara said that securing steady growth of the national economy, dependent largely on crude oil production and sales, demanded sustained support to the security agencies to enable them win the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism

    Fubara spoke shortly before handing over six security surveillance 400 horse-powered gunboats and three separate units of bungalows for Senior Officers’ Quarters and rating Bofor’s accommodation donated by his administration to the Nigerian Navy on Friday.

    The event, which took place at the NNS Pathfinder, Rumuolumeni in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, had the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla present to receive the donation of the government.

    Fubara in a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, said it was important for the Nigerian Navy to understand that the gunboats donated to them should improve their capacity to intensify surveillance of the maritime domain and make it difficult for criminals to operate.

    Fubara said: “As we gather here this afternoon, I want to assure you that this government will continue to support the Nigerian Navy. I am a member of the Committee on Oil Theft and Pipeline Vandalization in the Governor’s Forum, and one of the problems we are facing is how to curb this crime. 

    Read Also: Akpabio throws shades at Fubara, PDP at Wike’s birthday lecture, book launch 

    “I am starting with donating these gunboats to show that I am committed to that course. I am also happy, honestly as I said, and really humbled that the Chief of Naval Staff had decided to do this for us, standing with us to appreciate the little things that we are doing for the Nigerian Navy.”

    He explained that it was the responsibility of any government to support, provide and protect the lives and property of the people, which can be achieved, in part with complementary efforts.

    Fubara said: “We are saddled with a very difficult problem that we are all battling to save our heads from, which is the issue of pipeline vandalization and oil theft. This is a big problem in the Niger Delta. 

    “The little thing I can do is to promote and support the efforts of the Nigerian Navy. Yesterday night, a press man asked me, how do we motivate the Nigerian Navy, and I said, the event that we attended, the Sunset Dinner and Award Night, is a way to tell the Nigerian Navy, that we appreciate what you are doing, we want to encourage you to do more.

    “On our part as a government, we are donating these six Security Surveillance Gunboats to the Nigerian Navy, so that the Navy will perform better in protecting our waterways.”

    Fubara regretted the incidence of kidnapping and piracy activities on the Bonny and Kalabari waterways, adding that it needed to be adequately addressed.

    He said that with the gunboats, the Nigerian Navy should be able to manage those waterways, and make those sea routes safer for travellers and those who eke out a living at the sea.

    He said: “When the government lives up to its responsibility, by providing the amenities, equipment, and those equipment are not limited to only the boats, but other logistics which we are also providing to the Nigerian Navy, it will perform effectively.

    “So, here this afternoon, we are complementing the efforts of Mr President. We are complementing the efforts of the Chief of Naval Staff. We are also complementing the wonderful job that the Commander of the NNS Pathfinder is doing,” he added.

    Performing the inaguaration, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, noted that the donation of the gunboats attests to the existing partnership between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Navy.

    He said it demonstrated the unwavering support of  Fubara towards strengthening the Nigerian Navy through provision of critical assets and infrastructure for stable presence on the waterways

    Vice Admiral Ogalla said: “It is with a deep sense of appreciation that I stand here before you to commission these six Abitto gunboats donated by Rivers State Government to the Nigerian Navy, and particularly to NNS Pathfinder for the provision of security in our waterways, not only in Rivers State, but the Niger Delta as a whole.

    “First, it signifies the partnership between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Navy. It is also indicative of the commitment of the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his unwavering support towards strengthening the Nigerian Navy through provision of critical assets and infrastructure for stable presence in the waterways.

    “I am, therefore, positive that the operationalization of these boats will no doubt enhance the capabilities of the Nigerian Navy in protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain. As I look towards these gunboats, I can imagine the impact they are going to make in our operations. These are exactly the kind of boats that we require to be able to penetrate the creeks. These are exactly the kind of boats we require to be able to carry out our policing functions.”

    Vice Admiral Ogalla also thanked Governor Fubara for the three separate bungalow Senior Officers’ Quarters and rating Bofor’s accommodation, which will further offer requisite motivation to the officers.

    Speaking at the event, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Tammy Danagogo, explained that the gunboats and the housing facilities to the Nigerian Navy represent, in part, other levels of support provided by Fubara to the security agencies to ensure the security of lives and property. 

    In his remarks, Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, stated that the donation of the gunboats and the housing facilities was a testament of the generosity and unwavering support of Fubara to the Nigerian Navy.

    He stressed that the gunboats, in particular, would  greatly enhance operational capability of officers, enhance their collective efforts to ensure peace and promote maritime safety.

  • Fubara, Nwiya canvass human capital investment for youth development

    Fubara, Nwiya canvass human capital investment for youth development

    In an effort to provide enduring means of livelihood to the youth population in Rivers State and by extension Niger Delta region, boost trade and economic activities, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration has partnered with Niger Delta States on trade and investment expo. 

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed commitment to leverage on the abundant human capital and productive population in Rivers State to ensure that youths in the state have access to means of livelihood. 

    The Governor gave this assurance in Port Harcourt during the Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit organised by KenEva Consult Ltd and Ken-Rich Global Consult Ltd. 

    Representated by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Ordu, the Governor expressed delight that such platforms are being championed by visionary youth leaders, saying it will assist in enlarging the economic base of the state and create more entrepreneurs who will be employers of labour. 

    Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore CON highlighted the need to foster partnership with the states in the region order to ensure that development trickles down to the grassroot across Niger Delta. 

    The Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku applauded the initiative, noting that it is line with the vision of the Commission under his leadership to create opportunities for self-employment for young people in the region. 

    He also called on multinationals to bring back their headquarters to the region, noting that their operations are safe and secured anywhere in Niger Delta. 

    Founder NDEIS /NDIFTE, Amb Kenule Nwiya while commending President Tinubu for his interest in growth and development of Niger Delta said the Economic and investment summit and expo is strategically designed to give back to the people of the oil-rich region. 

    He thanked Governors in the Niger Delta states for the right atmosphere they have continued to create in order to ensure that entrepreneurship thrives and young people empowered to make a good living. 

    The keynote speaker, Dr. Richard Okoye, emphasised the need to invest in the health of the people in order the have a productive population. 

    He urged governments across the country to devote a large chunk of their budget to health sector, appealing for collaboration among states in the Niger Delta so that the region will become a destination for medical tourism. 

    The CEO of Barat Petroleum, Prince Haruna Momoh in his goodwill message said all regions and states need partnership with each other, in order to galvanize their strength for economic development. 

    Notable organizations, including NG Eagle Airline, Save A Life Foundation and others took advantage of the trade expo to reach out to new markets. 

    The event supported by the Ministry of Regional Development, formerly Ministry of Niger Delta had in attendance all the 23 local government areas of Rivers State led by ALGON Chairman in the state and the Mayor of Port Harcourt, Honourable Ezebunwo Ichemati. 

    Read Also: Fubara not to blame for Rivers debts, says group

    Youth leaders from the Niger Delta region, civil society organizations, traditional rulers and women groups were also in attendance. 

    The keynote speaker, Dr. Richard Okoye who is the chairman of Save A Life foundation was also on ground to give guests free medical consultations while the foundation also offered free medical treatment. 

    The Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit is precursor to the Niger Delta International Festival and Trade Expo coning up from Dec. 16—22 at Urhobo College, Warri, Delta State.

    Highlight of the event was presentation of a symbolic key of investment pathway to the region, and was received by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State who had earlier declared the event open on behalf of the governor.

  • We will continue to defend our mandate in Rivers, says Fubara

    We will continue to defend our mandate in Rivers, says Fubara

    Rivers State governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, has vowed to continue defending the mandate freely given to him by the people.

    Fubara spoke at the Funeral Service of late Mrs Erefori Basi Maeba, mother of Senator Lee Maeba, former representative of Rivers South-East Senatorial District in the National Assembly at Luuwa Community in Khana Local Government Area of the State yesterday.

    The governor said the interest of the people was important to his administration.

    Fubara said: “The government under our watch will continue to make and take the interest of our people very important.

    “We will not play or jeopardize this support and this mandate that you are giving to us, we will defend it and we will make you proud.”

    Fubara said that nothing would surpass the eternal gains of living quality and exemplary life because it would leave an enduring positive impact on society.

    He advised people to spend more time in endeavours that contribute to advancing society, help individuals and promote peace at all times.

    The governor said: “We are here to celebrate Mama, to say farewell. But I have a question for the family; the Lee family: When Mama was alive, I hope you had a relationship with her? I hope you had a friendship, you had respect for Mama?

    “Because it is not just enough for us to come to celebrate her in death. We should, when our parents are alive, also honour them. That is the most important thing.”

    Fubara, however, said that going by what was said by the chief mourner, Senator Maeba, the children had maintained good relationship with their matriarch.

    He said, “Let me thank everyone of you who have come to support our brother. There is nothing so important and too special than to live a life that is fulfilled.

    Read Also: Fubara: Rivers workers won’t have black Christmas

    “It is not the number of years, but the value that is added to that life that affects people positively when you are alive.”

    In his speech, the chief mourner, Senator Lee Maeba, acknowledged the support of Fubara and thanked friends for their solidarity and prayers while also expressing gratitude to God for keeping the family united.

    Dignitaries at the event were Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti; Victor Oko-Jumbo; former Governors of the State, Chibuike Amaechi, and Sir Celestine Omehia as well as former Deputy Governor, Engr Tele Ikuru.

    Others were Secretary to Rivers State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo; former National Chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus; former transport minister, Dr Abiye Sekibo; some former and serving National Assembly members; and Rivers State Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Emeka Bekee.

  • We will partner quantity surveyors in project delivery, says Fubara 

    We will partner quantity surveyors in project delivery, says Fubara 

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that his government will continue to partner quantity surveyors in the execution of infrastructural projects in the state.

    Fubara gave the assurance when he received the national officials of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), led by its President, Kene Nzekwe, at Government House, Port Harcourt.

    The governor also said that his administration would ensure that quantity surveyors in the State Civil Service got requisite certifications to enable them discharge their duties effectively and compete favourably with their peers anywhere in the country and the world.

    He commended the leadership and members of the institute for their quality services to the state and the nation, and urged them to continue to exhibit high level of professionalism and good ethical conduct in the discharge of their duties to restore confidence in the industry.

    Fubara said that the government would always apply due diligence and engage professionals in the execution of projects, adding that with strict adherence to due process, the state had recorded minimal failed projects.

    He assured the leadership and members of the institute the hospitality of the people of the state, and the enabling environment for a successful AGM and national conference.

    In his remarks, President of the Institute, Kene Nzekwe, expressed gratitude to the governor for the hospitality of the government and people of the state.

    Nzekwe said, “Since our arrival to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, we have continued to enjoy the ambiance and tranquility of this beautiful city. 

    “The development and growth of any country or state is highly dependent on her level of infrastructure development and the commitment of the leadership to continue to ensure infrastructure delivery. 

    “To this end, I would like to use this occasion of our visit to commend His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his laudable developmental strides such as the ongoing construction project of the Port Harcourt Ring Road. 

    Read Also: Fubara: Rivers workers won’t have black Christmas

    “The magnitude of this project, traversing six local government areas of the State is a statement that the Governor desires that development quickly reaches every nook and cranny of the State.

    “It is also difficult to miss the numerous road projects completed within this young administration, the funds channelled to health and education infrastructure, and the increase in internally generated revenue for the State. 

    “These instances are all evidence of the commendable efforts of your government thus far. Your dexterity for economic diversity and inclusion through agriculture and foreign direct investment is worthy of note”.

  • Fubara: Rivers workers won’t have black Christmas

    Fubara: Rivers workers won’t have black Christmas

    Rivers State civil servants won’t have black Christmas,  Governor  Siminialayi Fubara,  assured the people yesterday.

     He claimed  that ‘the enemies of the state’ desired bleak yuletide  for  the people following their push to deny his government access to revenue allocations.

    Fubara, who spoke   when he launched the 2025 Emblem Appeal Fund at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Port Harcourt, however, said his government, which prioritised the interest of Rivers people, satisfied its obligations and was able to receive its allocations.

    Read Also: Smuggling of migrants: FG adopts automated verification of travel documents

    Fubara said the civil servants were rejoicing  as the government fulfilled its salary promises enabling persons, who earned N70,000 monthly wages before to receive between N120,000 to N140,000.

    The governor said: “A lot of you that are here I know you have been hearing one thing or the other but what we are doing is not different from what this fallen heroes did for our country.

    “Some persons, who have decided to be enemies of the state, wanted us to experience a black Christmas but because we are determined to make sure that the interest of Rivers State should be the first thing, we were able to meet our obligations as a government and today I can say boldly that our civil servants are happy even in the face of all the  propaganda that my allocation fell inside one bridge.

    “But the civil servants are happy. We are the first state not just making the promise, but living up to that promise. Today, civil servants that were collecting N70,000 before  are jubilating with N120, N140,000”.

  • Rivers crises: Impose visa ban on Gov Fubara, Judges, US, UK urged

    Rivers crises: Impose visa ban on Gov Fubara, Judges, US, UK urged

    The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has called on the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and EU member States to impose a visa ban on Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Judges fuelling the Rivers crisis. 

    The NDC made this call during a briefing in Abuja, where it expressed alarm over the alleged erosion of democratic principles and constitutional governance under Governor Fubara.

    In his address, convener Okwa Dan said Governor Fubara has made efforts to weaken the people’s will and erode the rule of law, including influencing elections and pressuring the judiciary to support his agenda.

    The NDC condemned Judges who allegedly delivered verdicts that align with political interests rather than upholding the rule of law.

    The group described the Judges have eroded public confidence in the judiciary.

    The NDC urged the international community to hold Governor Fubara and his associates accountable for their actions, which they believe undermine  democratic future and destabilise the entire country.

    “We call on the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and EU member states to impose a visa ban on Governor Fubara, Oko-Jumbo, and other associates,” the NDC said.

    Read Also: Adamawa APC denies suspension of ex-governorship candidate Binani

    “We also call on the international community to hold these individuals responsible for their actions and to support democratic governance in Nigeria.”

    The NDC commended the lawful halt of federal revenue to Rivers State as an essential step in holding Governor Fubara accountable. 

    It also praised judges like Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, Chief Judge John Tsoho, and Justice Peter Lifu, who have set themselves apart from manipulations.

    The group called for international solidarity and urged civil society organisations, the media and all well-meaning Nigerians to join them in the fight for democracy.

    “This is a call to save democracy from the hands of devourers, and unpatriotic individuals. This is a fight for a just cause; where the law must never be undermined, intimidated, abused, or subdued by any political individual or faction for any reason.

    “Additionally, we urge the judiciary to uphold its sacred duty as the custodian of justice. Judges must resist political interference and prioritize the rule of law above all else. The survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on a judiciary that is impartial, independent, and committed to justice.

    “In conclusion, Rivers State stands at a critical juncture. The actions of Governor Fubara and his allies have placed the state’s democratic future in jeopardy. However, with collective action and international support in placing a visa ban on them, we can restore constitutional order and ensure that the voices of the people are heard,” he said. 

  • Rivers crisis: Caution Fubara, Wike’s aide replies Okurounmu

    Rivers crisis: Caution Fubara, Wike’s aide replies Okurounmu

    Afenifere chieftain, Dr Femi Okurounmu, has been counselled to avoid getting involved in matters capable of ridiculing his status as an elder statesman,  especially on matters  which he would not speak objectively for obvious reasons.

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister  Nyesom Wike’s Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, said this while reacting to Okurounmu’s statement, accusing President Bola Tinubu of being laid-back on the ongoing crisis in Rivers State.

    Olayinka said it was strange that Okurounmu, a former Senator could opt to be playing an ostrich to the avalanche of disobedience to court judgments by the Governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara, and the danger such affront  on the judiciary posed to democracy and the nation’s peace .

    Olayinka said: “One is however not too amazed because he (Okurounmu) holds the record of being the first Senator  to be suspended by his colleagues   since 1999 till date.

    Read Also: Enough is enough

    Okurounmu had accused the FCT Minister of being the architect and mastermind of the Rivers crisis, saying: “even if Governor Sim Fubara is his godson, Wike should be told that he cannot be his surrogate as a sitting governor with full powers.”

    Replying, Olayinka asked  Okurounmu to tell Nigerians when Wike said that he wanted Governor Fubara to be his surrogate, and not function as the Governor of Rivers State, adding that: “He (Okurounmu), as an elder should be honest enough to stand before the mirror and ask himself the roles he played in Fubara becoming governor”.

    He said: “In Yorubaland, when two children are quareling, what the elders do is to sit them down and listen to their sides of the conflict. Elders don’t just sit in their bedrooms and apportion blames as done by Baba Femi Okurounmu.

    “Was it Wike that went to the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex and set it on fire so as to prevent duly elected lawmakers from carrying out their duties?

    “Was it Wike that has been illegally using three members out of the 32-member  House of Assembly to carry out legislative business in Rivers State, including passing the  Budget as well as screening and confirming commissioners, when the Constitution says that budget can only be passed by two-third of the Assembly members?

    “Hasn’t Governor Fubara been ignoring judgments of the courts concerning his regime of lawlessness ? When the Court of Appeal in Abuja on October 10, affirmed a lower court’s decision nullifying the Rivers State’s 2024 budget signed into law and being operated by Governor Fubara, did the governor obey the judgment?

    “And is it not shocking that Dr Okurounmu had chosen to ignore the danger Governor Fubara’s deliberate affronts on the rule of law pose to democracy and peace in Nigeria?”

    On Okurounmu’s accusation that President Tinubu was being laid-back on the Rivers State crisis, Olayinka asked; “What exactly does Baba Femi Okurounmu expect the President to have done? Overrule the various judicial pronouncements and join Governor Fubara in his reign of lawlessness?”

  • My opponents desperate to hijack Rivers resources, Fubara alleges

    My opponents desperate to hijack Rivers resources, Fubara alleges

    Governor  Siminalayi Fubara alleged yesterday that the raging political crisis in Rivers State was caused by his opponents’ desire to hijack the state’s resources.

    But Fubara assured that he would continue to utilise all state resources judiciously for the people’s overall interest.

    The governor urged the church to keep praying for his administration because he needed ‘’more power’’ to remain focused.  

    He spoke during the 51st birthday of Apostle Chibuzor   Chinyere, general overseer of   Omega Power Ministries (OPM) Worldwide, and the 18th anniversary of the church in  Mbodo, Aluu near Port Harcourt.

    Fubara has since last November been at loggerhead with his predecessor Nyesom Wike and 27 pro-Wike members of the state House of Assembly on the running of the state.

    Although none of the parties has made a categorical statement on what led to the logjam, some observers believe it has to do with the control of the state’s resources and political levers.

    Efforts, including the  December 2023 intervention by President Bola Ahmed   Tinubu, have yielded no peace with verbal and legal fireworks deepening.

    The latest conundrum is last week’s directive by a Federal High Court in Abuja directing the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) to halt further release of funds from the Federation Account to the state.  

    But Fubara, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS)  Nelson Chukwudi,  turned to the church for continuous prayer for his administration to remain focused. 

    He said: “There is a reason for this crisis, and that reason is the control of the resources of Rivers State. Rivers State resources belong to you, and we will make sure that the resources are applied judiciously for the betterment of Rivers State.

    “What you owe us is just one thing: Continue to pray for us. Let us not lose focus because we know the devil is always at war to derail people in governance.

    “Continue to pray for us because what is most important is the interest of the people here, and I believe that with your prayers, we will not lose focus and the purpose of governance will be achieved in Rivers State.”

    The governor lauded  Apostle Chinyere for his contributions to humanity.

    He said he met decayed public amenities on the assumption of office and commended Chinyere for the various educational programmes of the ministry aimed at providing children  the requisite vocational and technical knowledge for future employment.

    Fubara added: “I want to commend you for what you are doing. Life is not about taking. What is important in life is giving, and anybody who believes that it is only taking, the person won’t go far in life.

    “For all you are doing for humanity, God will continue to strengthen you. You don’t know what you are doing, but those of us who are outside understand your contributions to humanity.

     “Look at what you just showed me here. How many of our schools are still functioning to provide that level of training? They are no longer there! We met a dead system that we are trying to revive. But you are doing it as a private person. Why won’t God bless you?”

     The governor further thanked the cleric and his congregation for the support of his administration in spite of all the challenges.

     Fubara also donated N200 million to the church to support its ongoing developmental projects.

    Read Also: Fubara, Wike and the Niger Delta threat

     He said: “Let me say congratulations to this church because the GO ‘Power’ will not succeed without the support of you. So, I want to thank you for supporting Power.

     “I am happy to be here, especially to celebrate this birthday with him. He has been a very strong supporter of our cause. Right from the time we started this journey, he has kept faith with me in his prayers. 

    “I strongly believe his prayer and the prayers of the church are one of the reasons that while in the face of all our troubles, we are still standing. There is nothing God cannot do. So, I know that with your continuous prayers, we will overcome this present challenge.

    “I am aware that there is a building for your TV station, and one of the dreams for that place is when you finish it, guests will be staying there when they come for programmes. Let me, on behalf of the government and every one of you here, and the good people of Rivers State, donate the sum of N200 million to support the project.

    “I need more power, more power for the progress of Rivers State, more power for the defense of humanity in Rivers State. God will bless you people for your prayers, and I assure you, we will not fail you.”