*Whether they’re in Rivers or Abuja
*Pix above(l-r): Gov Fubara and Nyesom Wike
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed that his administration will not fold its hands and watch sponsored political thugs run amok and committing arson in the state, whether they’re in Rivers or Abuja, FCT.
The Governor gave this assurance while swearing in four new commissioners into the Rivers State Executive Council at Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
Those sworn in are Hon. Israel Lebura Ngbuelu, Hon. Evans Bapakaye Bipi, Barrister Otamiri John Ngubo, and Hon. Barrister Benibo Anabraba.
He recalled mentioning during the swearing-in of newly elected Local Government Council Chairmen on October 6, 2024, that there was intelligence regarding planned mayhem by misguided individuals who had threatened to prevent the elected officers from resuming their duties.
The Governor stated that the sponsored political thugs hatched their plans and burned valuable buildings at some council secretariats.
He said: “I mentioned it before it happened. I knew because they were unhappy, they would go to great lengths to create disaffection in the minds and hearts of the good people of Rivers State.
“We also want the people to know that what has happened (the arson) after the election will not go uninvestigated.
“A similar event occurred before, and after a few weeks, some of our supporters were declared wanted to turn the story around.
“But this time, I strongly believe that, with the support and cooperation of the Nigerian Police and the Directorate of State Services (DSS), we will uncover those behind the assault and ensure they are held accountable for their atrocities.”
Gov. Fubara appreciated the patience and calmness shown by the majority of Rivers people, despite their anger over the reckless acts of the misguided miscreants.
He stated that he had continued to show leadership, providing a climate conducive to productive endeavors, and would not mislead those he leads.
“As your leader, the one steering the ship, I assure you I will not mislead any of you. I remain committed to the path of peace. We have experienced cases of arson in some Local Government Areas. But I appreciate your calmness. I have always maintained that we would be the greatest losers if we meet them force for force. We need to respond with peace.
“So, I encourage all of you not to respond to them with violence. We are carrying a basket of precious eggs in our hands. Therefore, we need to approach this situation with caution and wisdom.”
Governor Fubara reiterated what he said the previous day about what should matter most for Rivers State: a firm commitment to ensuring the progress of Nigeria is sustained.
He mentioned that if oil theft was not curbed, the country’s economy would be severely impacted, resulting in insufficient funds to address critical issues.
“We are in a situation where the funds generated from oil production are not enough to tackle Nigeria’s challenges, and everyone must contribute to ensure an increase in production.
“Our focus, despite the distractions, will be on providing support. You must work with us to curb oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
“This is the only way that revenue will increase and more will flow into our state, leading to greater progress in Rivers State,” the governor urged.
He explained that his administration is doing a lot for the good people of the state, but these efforts are often overshadowed by political drama that diverts attention.
However, he stated that his administration is working on modalities and would soon choose a day—likely before the end of October 2024 to showcase a few projects and services that have positively impacted lives in the state.
Governor Fubara congratulated the newly sworn-in commissioners for their appointment to the Rivers State Executive Council.
He explained that more individuals whose loyalty lies with the people of Rivers and the administration need to be appointed to the council to help drive government policies, as they are unlikely to resign their positions.
Gov. Fubara said, “We want to ensure that we know who we are adding to the council, so we do not wake up one morning to find resignation letters. Thus, we are taking our time.
“Usually, after a normal political period, there is a need for balancing. So, I can also say that the new commissioners coming in represent their zones to balance the political equation.”
He charged them to be dedicated, forthright, diligent, and productive while delivering quality services to the state.
The Governor expressed his belief in their capacity to deliver, given their exposure to the workings of government, and hoped they would contribute positively to the success of the administration.
He said, “So, let me thank each one of you. Let me also take this opportunity to thank the good people of Rivers State for their support and assure them that we will continue to defend and protect the interests of Rivers people.
“I want to thank everyone for your support, especially before, during, and after the elections. I appreciate your determination and your belief in our mission to salvage this state and protect its integrity,” he added.(aqgency)///
