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Rerun: Rivers Decides, ’Morrow …Amidst Huge Armed Security …INEC Shares Sensitive Materials
All is now set for the conduct of the rerun elections into the remaining legislative seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly, House of Representatives and the three Senatorial seats at the National Assembly tomorrow.
Consequently, all participating political parties and their respective candidates for the various elective positions have concluded campaigns to canvass for votes from Rivers electorate.
Already, the electorate across the affected local government areas and communities have been sensitised and mobilised to freely exercise their franchise on Saturday.
On their part, the police and other security agencies detailed for election duties have been adequately mobilised and fired up to provide the much needed security and protection to all participants in the electoral process without fear or favour.
Similarly, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has concluded arrangements for the exercise which has been postponed several times this year after the botched March 19 attempt.
The Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC),says all plans for the conclusion of the outstanding March 19th re run elections in Rivers State have been concluded as materials for the elections were distributed yesterday, Thursday.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC),Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak who stated this on Wednesday, during a stakeholders forum in Port Harcourt, stated that the rerun elections will be held in the three senatorial districts, Rivers East, Rivers South East and Rivers West and Eight Federal constituencies seats, Tai/Eleme/Oyigbo, Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro, Bonny/Degema,Akuku-Toru/Asari Toru,Khana/Gokana, Ikwerre/Emohua,Etche/Omuma and Okrika/Ogu.
Elder Ikoiwak also explained that elections would be conducted in ten state constituency seats, comprising Andoni, Asari Toru 1,Asari Toru 11,Bonny,Degema,Eleme,Etche 11,Gokana,Ikwerre and Khana 11, adding that the elections will cut across the 23 local Government Areas and that all the three election types will hold in every polling unit.
The REC noted that Card Reader will be used during the elections as it has been deployed to the local government areas, explaining that the modified voting procedure which involves simultaneous accreditation and voting will be also used.
He further explained that the commission in a bid to ensure a credible and fair rerun election had embarked on various activities such as stock taking/distribution of non sensitive materials, reactivation of registration area centres, sensitization of stakeholders, and peace meetings.
According to him,’’ the commission also recruited ad hoc personnel, trained, received and distributed sensitive materials and had several meetings with the inter-Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to fine tune plans and to ensure that adequate security is provided for corps members, other election officials, electorates and election materials.
Meanwhile, ahead of Saturday’s rerun election in Rivers State, pro-democracy and good governance group, the Wailing Wailers, has urged chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, particularly the National Chairman, Chief Odigie Oyegun and Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State to stop making inciting statements capable of sparking violence in the state. APC rally in Rivers State.
The group, said the call became necessary, following what it described as inciting statements made by Oyegun and Ganduje, at the Mega Rally of the APC in Port-Harcourt, the Rivers state capital.
The Wailing Wailers in a statement yesterday, in Abuja by its Ag. National Publicity Secretary, Usman Abubakar said: “our attention has been drawn to the inciting statement credited to the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Odigie Oyegun and the Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, which has been reconfirmed.
“The statements, which they both made at the APC rallyyesterday, in the run down to the Rivers rerun, reads: “‘If they push you, push them back. If they slap you, slap them back” “As you can see, we came in force. The whole federal might is here”- Odigie Oyegun, APC National Chairman.
“‘If they shoot at you, take cover and shoot them back’-Gov. Ganduje, Kano State. “We are wondering, at what point did election become arm conflict or war in Nigeria? These dangerous and inciting statements by the Chairman of APC and Kano State Governor, must be condemned by Mr President.
If this statement is not condemned by President Buhari, it then means that APC has a plot to set Nigeria on fire. “Elections have been so peaceful, free and fair until APC took over power, and ripped the electorate their power to freely choose who they want to govern them. Since then, elections have become a do or die affair with the APC.
This is sad, we are also aware that all these are preparations to test ground for 2019. “If Oyegun and Ganduje are responsible people who love Nigeria above any selfish political interest, and also willing to lay a good foundation for the youths and incoming generation to follow, they should be working round the clock on how to ensure that Nigeria get out of the present economic doldrums their party has brought upon Nigeria.
They should not be in Rivers to brag about Federal might or to intimidate, induce voters and also incite violence. “We condemn in strong terms the statements and demand that the duo of APC National Chairman and Ganduje who left all the way from Kano state to incite violence in Rivers State, to tender an apology to Nigerians.
“We call on all Riverians to shun and not mind Oyegun and Ganduje call for violence, if you allow them to set your state on fire, they will not take part or bear the consequences with you. We therefore warn the violence promoters to desist from such acts and call for a peaceful election.”
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We’re Working To Improve Quality Of Life Of Rivers People -Fubara …As Taraba Gov Inaugurates 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja Roads Project
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to render quality service that will improve the quality of life of residents, and strengthen the platform to promote unity.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance at the Okania-Ogbogoro Road junction, venue of the inauguration of the 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja (and Mgbuoba) Roads project in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, yesterday.
The road cuts across Okania community through Ogbogoro, and connects Port Harcourt Ring Road project under construction, and was inaugurated by the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas.
Governor Fubara said that during the campaigns, he saw the roads in terrible condition, made a promise to fix them, and noted that that promise has been kept.
He emphasised that his administration will never be reckoned with abandoning of projects that it started, which is why he is particularly excited that the road has been fixed to ease the inconveniences suffered by the people.
The Governor said, “What we are doing here today is very simple: Promise made, promise fulfilled. I told you that whatever we are going to start, we are not going to leave it halfway. So, we have come here this afternoon to fulfill that promise.
“I am so excited, and I am so happy. I am leaving here with so much joy that we have done something that has so much impact, and importance in the lives of our people. So, I feel very fulfilled. Government is about the people. Government is knowing, understanding and seeing what you can do to make life easy for your people.
“We understand the situation of this road. Fortunately, I have a few friends who also live around here. So, there is nothing you will say that I don’t know. As a government, we will continue to do those things we know will make life easy for you.”
The Governor thanked members of the communities in the area for their support to his administration, and also for cooperating with the contractor to ensure completion of the project.
He assured the people that their request for the rehabilitation of the Community Secondary School and Health Centre, will be looked at and addressed immediately, saying, “Our government is a government that takes the interest of our people very seriously.
“There is no government without the people. It is only the people that keep the government going. So, what we will continue to do is to make sure that the problems and interest of our people are top on our list,” he assured.
Performing the inauguration, Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, said roads are not just physical infrastructure but represent a commitment to facilitate ease of transportation, boost local commercial activities and improve quality of lives for the people of Rivers State.
Dr Kefas noted that Governor Fubara has provided the people good roads, and like other good roads, it will serve as an artery of development, further connecting communities, enhancing access to essential services while unlocking economic potentials.
He said, “By completing this project, Your Excellency has, once again, demonstrated the transformative impact of visionary leadership. When I was coming in with the Governor on a ride, I saw the joy, the happiness of the voiceless people who were abandoned and neglected in this area, coming out to wave and welcome us.
“It wasn’t a hired crowd. Everybody, those who couldn’t make it to this place, in front of their homes, they were waving at us, and I was telling the Governor: this is all about good governance. He listened to the people, and solved their problems. So, it shows that he is doing the right thing, and I want to thank you, my brother, for what you are doing for the good people, especially the poor people even in difficult times.”
Governor Kefas further said: “As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of collaboration and shared vision among us as Governors. Together, we can inspire our people, improve their lives, and create lasting legacies in our respective states.”
Providing the project description, the State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, recalled that when it was flagged-off in May, 2024, the project was for a 5km stretch but was extended in October, to include Mgbaraja axis, increasing the length to 6.55km, explaining that the 10.3 meter wide, and 5km of drains road, has now linked Apara Kingdom to Nkpor Kingdom.
In his address, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amb Chijioke Ihunwo, described the road as a very significant route that was abandoned for years until Governor Fubara intervened and fixed it, promising that Obio/Akpor people will not take the gestures of the State Government under Governor Fubara for granted.
Speaking on behalf of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the firm that handled the project, Eric Shen, said they are happy to be part of the infrastructure development strides of Governor Fubara, stating that though the rains posed significant challenge, they have delivered quality road network to serve the connectivity needs of the people.
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We’ll Implement Judicial Commission’s Report On Arson, Killings -Fubara …Says Such Violence Must Stop In Rivers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured of implementing the recommendations of the report submitted to him by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Arson, Killings, and Wanton Destruction of Property at some local government council headquarters on or around Monday, October 7, 2024.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance when the seven-member commission, led by the Chairman, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, submitted four volumes of reports of their investigation and recommendations to him at Government House in Port Harcourt, yesterday.
The Governor declared that his administration will neither tolerate nor allow such level of violence in the State anymore because it is not profitable or productive.
He said, “We are not going to be part of any system that would encourage any destruction in this State. And for that reason, we had to inaugurate this commission, so that this commission should look into the remote and immediate causes of this problem.
“And I believe that the recommendations of this commission, with the help of God and the support of everyone, we will make sure that we implement the recommendations.”
Governor Fubara said: “We are going to take it to the next stage. The report will be presented to the Executive Council, and there, we will surely come out with the White Paper and with the White Paper. I can assure you, we are going to follow it to the end.
“Nobody is above the law, including me. So, provided what we are doing is within the confines of the law, we will do it with the help of every one.”
Governor Fubara recalled how, before 2014, a group of persons had ran wide recklessly in the State, burning down court buildings.
He noted that it is such persons, who had recently surfaced with their destructive tendencies, and have extended the violence to local government councils, killing people and destroying government property.
Governor Fubara wondered why somebody will spend so much money to build a structure intended to last as legacy of the administration but would eventually be part of its destruction in the name of politics.
Governor Fubara clarified that he has never been part of such destructive politics that continue to set the State backwards and frustrate progressive development strides.
Governor Fubara said: “I make bold to say it, I have never been and will never be a party to anything that will bring shame, disgrace, destruction to our dear State.
“It is our State. If it is well with us, it will be well with everybody. As a matter of fact, why should I encourage destruction, when I know that when you finish spoiling things, you still need money to rebuild them.
“I am an accountant, I know the importance of how we can manage money. Rather than spoil, you should use that money to do a new thing for the State.”
Governor Fubara vowed: “So, I am going to ensure that we put a stop to that level of violence or such unreasonable violence. I call it unreasonable violence because it doesn’t mean anything in politics.
“Politics is a business of interest. There is no permanent friend, no permanent enemy. Some persons who were not even in our support, today, they are here following us because their interest is the most important thing.
“Likewise tomorrow, if the interest changes, they will also go their different ways. So, why burn down the house?”
Governor Fubara thanked members of the commission for being bold, focused, and accomplishing their task with determination in the face of physical and legal threats.
In her presentation, Chairman of the seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, said they had put their findings into four volumes, including the recommendations.
Justice Minakiri explained: “We have here four volumes of the report. We have the memoranda, which is the memoranda we got after we made our publications.
“We also have the exhibits that came with the memoranda. We have the proceedings and the records. At the end of the day, we came up with the main report.”
Justice Minakiri advised that the recommendations of the report should be studied and implemented so that people can be deterred from such callous acts and the sought-after peace secured for the State.
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We Are Eager To Showcase The Best Of Rivers State -Fubara …Declares Federation Of Public Service Games Open
The Rivers State Government says it is committed to providing a memorable experience for all delegates participating in the Federation of Public Service Games(FEPSGA) hosted by the State Government.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara stated this during the opening Ceremony of the 43rd Edition, Public Service Games, titled ”Simplified Rivers 2024″, at Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt, last Sunday.
Speaking through his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Governor Fubara said “Our hospitality is renowned and we are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment, we have everything in place to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.”
Governor Fubara said to ensure the success of the games his Administration has put in place comprehensive plans and preparations with four venues approved for the events which include the Sharks Stadium, Alfred Diette -Spiff Civic Centre, Port Harcourt Club and the University of Port Harcourt.
The State Chief Executive urged participants to remember that the true spirit of FEPSGA goes beyond winning medals, stressing that it is about building bridges of friendship, fostering a sense of community and celebrating our diversity.
According to him, we envision a public service that is more productive, more efficient and more effective, a future where public servants are empowered to deliver exceptional results driven by a culture of excellence, innovation and teamwork.
The Governor reiterated that while a healthy mind and body are essential for high productivity, regular physical activity boosts our mood, increases energy levels and enhances our cognitive function. We are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment.
In her address Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who spoke through Dr.(Mrs) Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Interior Commended Governor Fubara for hosting this year’s event, and for his dedication to promoting sports and fostering unity in the country.
She noted that the event which serves as a platform for furthering unity, camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst public servants, was a celebration of their shared commitment to excellence, resilience and service to the nation.
Also speaking the National President of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA), Comrade Amaebi Aloku, said Rivers State got the nod to host the annual event because the Federation was pleased with the vision of Governor Fubara in identifying with the needs of the Civil Servants in the State, in terms of their welfare and being one of the first State to implement the new minimum wage and even taking it above what was approved by the national.
Earlier the Head of Service Rivers State, Dr George Nwaeke had welcomed all participants to the State and expressed gratitude to the Governor for approving and making available the resources to host the games, noting that it was an opportunity to interact with all Civil Servants across the nation.
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