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No Break On Projects Delivery, Wike Vows …Restates Commitment To Civil Servants’ Welfare …Charges Newly Sworn-In LG Chairmen On Service Delivery
The Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has declared that he would not slow down on projects delivery because the people of the state deserve the very best.
Speaking after inspecting projects in Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre local government areas, yesterday, Wike said that he is motivated to maintain the tempo of projects delivery to make up for the eight years that the state lost during the tenure of the immediate past administration.
Accompanied by Senator Samuel Anyanwu (PDP, Imo East) and Cross River PDP chieftain, Dr Sandy Onor, Wike said that he would make the maximum use of the opportunity to serve Rivers State to leave his positive footprints on the sands of time.
He said: “Not everyone has the privilege to serve. What we are doing is to serve Rivers State to the best of our ability.
“These basic amenities are meant to attract investors. The attraction of investors will create employment opportunities and enhance the economy of the state.
“We cannot take a break in terms of the delivery of projects because there is so much work to be done.”
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work at the Government Girls Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, noting that an old structure was left in the middle of the school to remind people of the dilapidated nature of the institution before the reconstruction.
He said that the school would be commissioned by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria on Saturday.
Wike also visited the Isiokpo Internal Roads billed to be commissioned tomorrow by the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, adding that the projects commissioning and flag-off would continue till July 10, 2018.
The governor also inspected ongoing construction of Cinemas and Restaurants at the Port Harcourt Pleasure Park, explaining that the cinemas would be the best in the country.
In an interview, Senator Samuel Anyanwu commended the Rivers State governor for living up to the expectations of Rivers people.
He said that the outstanding developmental strides of Wike were premised on the developmental philosophy of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Meanwhile, The Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has declared that his administration would continue to give priority attention to the welfare of civil servants.
Also, former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah Jang declared that the excellent performance of Wike and other PDP governors was an indication that only Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) can redeem Nigeria.
They spoke, last Monday during the commissioning of 24 units of three-bedroom flats for civil servants in Port Harcourt.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Wike said: “This is a day for workers. This is a direct project meant for the workers of Rivers State, who are the engine room of this administration.
“As our civil servants inhabit this wonderful estate, they must take steps to keep it clean. We will appoint a facility manager, but the payment will be borne by the state government and the occupants”.
He explained that the state government would flag off the construction of Labour House on June 29, 2018.
“We are interested in workers welfare. Our commitment is to ensure that we create the right environment for workers to perform their roles”, he said.
Commissioning the 24 units of three-bedroom flats for civil servants, the former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah Jang said that projects were only being commissioned in PDP states.
He lauded Wike for transforming the landscape of Rivers State with new projects, noting that Port Harcourt was regaining her garden city status.
“What our governors are doing, particularly what Governor Wike is doing, and you cannot but bring PDP back to transform the country. There is no sign that anything new will happen. If they have not done anything new in three years, they cannot do it in the campaign year”, he said.
The former Plateau State governor noted that there were no new projects being commissioned in APC states because they are not interested in the welfare of their people.
The Chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Rivers State Council, Comrade Beatrice Itubo thanked the Rivers State governor for being workers friendly, and assured the governor of the support of the NLC.
In his remarks, Head of Service, Rivers State, Barrister Rufus Godwins said that after the Dr Peter Odili era, Wike was the first governor to construct a brand new housing estate for Rivers civil servants.
Similarly, the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has sworn-in the 23 Local Government Council chairmen elected during the June 16, 2018 Local Government Elections conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
Performing the swearing-in at the Executive Council Chambers, last Monday, Wike charged the council chairmen to prioritise payment of salaries, promotion of security and environmental sanitation.
He said: “Now that you have emerged through a credible process, you must prioritise payment of salaries. This is key as no excuses will be tolerated.
“Council money is for salaries, development of the areas and security. You should endeavour to leave legacies of development across the state. Make a difference through the development of your local government areas.”
He advised the newly sworn-in local government council chairmen to work closely with security agencies in their local government areas.
“You must create avenues of cooperation with all the security agencies. That will help you create the right environment for development to take place in your areas”, he said.
The governor charged the council chairmen of Akuku-Toru, Asari-Toru and Degema to develop the right platforms to ensure that their communities were safe.
He challenged the council chairmen of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Obio/Akpor, Ikwerre, Oyigbo and Eleme local government areas to take serious steps to ensure they clean specific areas of their councils.
Wike urged the council chairmen to work amicably with their councillors to avoid unnecessary conflicts that will cripple their councils.
On the conduct of the Local Government Elections, Wike commended the security agencies for providing security for the peaceful and credible conduct of the polls.
He also commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for conducting free, fair and credible polls.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by leaders of the state, commissioners and party chieftains.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bro Felix Obuah says if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies can take a cue from the conduct of the just-concluded local government elections by the RISIEC, most of the pitfalls that characterize national elections in the country would be put to rest.
Obuah, who made the observation in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jerry Needam, commended the RSIEC for a very peaceful, free and credible chairmanship and councillorship polls across the 23 local government areas of the state last Saturday.
He also lauded the massive turnout of Rivers people and residents in the state for the voting exercise, describing it as most commendable and encouraging.
The state PDP boss noted that the smooth and rancour-free council elections as witnessed last Saturday in all the 319 wards and over 4,000 electoral units in the state have proved beyond doubt that free, fair and credible elections were still possible in Nigeria only if the INEC, electoral officials and security agencies would be sincere and committed to their respective duties and to the ideals of democracy during elections.
He expressed joy that the successful and peaceful conduct of the elections have not only exposed those usually behind election crisis in the state in the past but also confirmed the promise of the PDP-led state government under the leadership of Governor Nyesom Wike to institutionalize a cost effective and less rancorous model for future local government elections in the state.
Obuah enjoined Rivers people, especially the youth to learn to imbibe democratic ideals and ingenious methodologies of all time experienced leaders and democrats in the mould of Wike, whom he described as a rare political gem irrespective political leanings.
It is only through such non-partisan attitude, the state PDP boss noted, that a perfect electoral system would evolve.
The state PDP boss congratulated all the newly elected council chairmen and councillors on their electoral victories, and enjoined them to join hands with the state chief executive to ensure that development gets to the grassroots which was the essence of the third tier government.
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), has charged the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Ibibia Lucky Worika to bring his wealth of experience to bear in governance of the State.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) gave the charge shortly after swearing in the new SSG at the executive chambers of Government House on Wednesday night.
The Administrator who congratulated Prof Worika on his appointment said the choice was not merely an administrative decision but a statement of intent.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) explained that the new SSG has an unparallel expertise in law, policy and international governance, which align perfectly with the mission to restore law, order, integrity and public trust in Rivers State.
He said: “To our new SSG, the task ahead is onerous, but your track record leaves no doubt in our minds that you will prove your mettle. Rivers State needs your intellect, grit and unweaving dedication. Together, we will write a new chapter of progress for this great state.
“Prof Worika’s role will be critical in driving this vision, ensuring that every policy, every decision and every action is in consonance with this administration’s mandate to restore law and order, stabilize the polity and to create the necessary conditions for the restoration of democratic institutions and representations.”
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) pointed to his maiden address to Rivers people wherein he emphasised that his administration will be committed to delivering an effective governance that is anchored on transparency, accountability and service.
He therefore, enjoined the new SSG to brace up to the demands of his office, and offer his best service as required while also working cooperatively with civil servants.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) said: “You have no time to settle down. You must roll up your sleeves and get to work with the team.
“Our civil servants with whom we will work closely to run this administration are critical stakeholders and we must work with them to ensure that the state continues to function effectively during this administration.
“To the Permanent Secretaries and civil servants as a whole, once more I will ask your kind cooperation and support as we work to achieve our objectives at this time,” he added.
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I Am One Of You, Sole Administrator Tells Rivers People …Warns Against Violence, Crude Oil Sabotage
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has assured residents that he is not in the State as a partisan actor or political competitor but as a stabilising force to restore governance and order.
In a state broadcast yesterday, Ibas, who assumed duty at Government House, Port Harcourt, emphasised his commitment to protecting civil liberties and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
However, he issued a stern warning against crude oil sabotage and violence, urging residents to resist any temptation to return to past hostilities.
“For decades, I have dedicated my life to the service of our great nation—first as the 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and later as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana. I answered this call out of the need for peace in Nigeria, and most importantly, in Rivers State,” Ibas stated.
Describing the prolonged political impasse as a major setback to governance and democracy, he acknowledged the hardships faced by families and businesses due to the prevailing uncertainty.
“As a son of the Niger Delta, I am one of you. I feel the weight of this crisis on families, businesses, and the future of our people,” he said.
Ibas commended President Bola Tinubu’s decisive action in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, stressing that it was a necessary move to restore stability and revive economic activities.
“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth. But this mission requires collective support from all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation or ethnicity,” he stated.
He discouraged attacks on oil infrastructure, reminding residents of the devastating environmental and economic consequences of such actions.
“The Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil facilities. We must resist the temptation to return to those ugly days,” he cautioned.
While pledging to uphold civil liberties and the rule of law, the Sole Administrator warned that lawlessness and violence would not be tolerated.
“We will not act arbitrarily, but we will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who threatens the peace and stability of Rivers State,” he declared.
Ibas revealed that he had concluded a State Security Council meeting where strategic measures were outlined to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility, he also acknowledged the National Assembly for approving the emergency declaration.
“I will work closely with the national leadership under the guidance of the President. I am optimistic that Rivers State will emerge stronger and greater,” he concluded.
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department has confirmed that 10 persons have died in the truck explosion that occurred near Karu bridge, along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, on Wednesday.
The FEMD’s Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the numbers in a statement, yesterday.
The Acting Director General of the Emergency Department, Abdulrahman Mohammed, had earlier confirmed that eight persons had died as of yesterday morning, with five confirmed dead on the scene, and four others burnt beyond recognition.
““Five people were taken dead from the scene yesterday (Wednesday). Out of the people that were injured, one died, making six. Then this morning (yesterday), when I asked my people to go round, they discovered that two had already died again, making eight. Four of them from yesterday were burnt beyond recognition.”, he explained.
However, in her statement, Isa said the Head, Forecasting Response and Mitigation of FEMD, Mr Mark Nyam, said eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one body at the Asokoro Distinct Hospital Morgue while another body was deposited at the National Hospital.
He added that some victims had been referred to the Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, and Cedercrest Hospital Abuja for proper care.
Part of the statement reads, “The FCT Emergency Management Department FEMD can confirm that 10 persons lost their lives to the truck explosion that occurred at Karu bridge along Abuja / Keffi expressway.
“The Head Forecasting Response and Mitigation of FEMD, Mr Mark Nyam said eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one body at the Asokoro Distinct Hospital Morgue while another body was deposited at the National Hospital.”
He informed that over 30 persons suffered various degrees of burns.
“Some of the victims have been referred to Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre,Keffi and Cedercrest Hospital Abuja for proper care,” he said.
Isa also stated that no fewer than 10 vehicles were burnt during the incident, adding that the FEMD boss after a visit to the incident scene, appealed to motorists to observe traffic rules and regulations.
He also cautioned against reckless driving, dangerous overtaking and poor maintenance of vehicles, while urging FCT residents to always use the 112 emergency toll free number in the event of an emergency.
Meanwhile, barely 24 hours after the incident, another fertiliser-laden truck has collapsed on the same spot.
The Tide learnt that the incidence occurred at about 3:54pm yesterday.
The Head of Public Affairs of the FCT Emergency Management Department, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the accident in a statement, stating that the truck collided with a Hijet and a dump truck, adding that no life was lost.
She cautioned road users to drive with caution as the Federal Road Safety Corps was making efforts to tow away the affected vehicles, to avoid traffic built up.
“Another accident has occurred under Karu bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway. Thankfully, no life was lost to the incident. Our Search and Rescue say the accident occurred when a truck laden with fertilizer ran into a Hijet and a dump truck also known as tipper.
“Motorists are advised to drive with caution as the Federal Road Safety Corps is taking steps to tow away the affected vehicles in order to avoid traffic built up,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, several videos showed some persons trying to clear the fertiliser bags from the fallen truck to ease traffic.