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Wike, Nigeria’s Best Performing Gov …As RSG Rolls Out 15 Roads In Okochiri -Atiku
Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has stated that the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has continued to win the best governor’s award because of his state-wide delivery of relevant projects.
Speaking before commissioning 11 roads under the Isiokpo internal roads Phase 1 constructed by the administration of Governor Nyesom Wike in Ikwerre Local Government Area, yesterday, Abubakar said that Wike has won the “Governor of the Year Award” consecutively since 2016 because he was executing projects to improve the lives of the people.
He said: “Since May this year as part of the Third Anniversary of Governor Wike’s administration, one project is commissioned each day. The Isiokpo internal roads form part of the projects.
“No wonder, Governor Wike keeps winning the “Best Governor of the Year” consecutively since 2016. No governor has achieved that record. It will be very difficult to beat that record.
“I am extremely proud of Governor Wike’s achievements and we are proud of the governor’s leadership”.
The former vice president noted that he appreciates the quality of work done so far by Wike because he lived in Port Harcourt and understands the profound nature of the projects delivered.
In his remarks at the commissioning ceremony, Wike said that the second phase of Isiokpo internal roads would be completed before the end of this year.
The governor also announced that the Ibaa-Isiokpo Road would also be completed and commissioned by the end of the year.
Wike said that the commissioning of projects will be sustained because of the need to keep Nigerians informed on the massive infrastructural regeneration in the state.
The governor said the previous administration in the state could not commission projects because no projects existed.
“When we make promises, we fulfill our promises. We are not like those who make promises and give excuses why they cannot be achieved”, he said.
Wike urged Isiokpo people to reciprocate the developmental strides of his administration by ensuring they support PDP in 2019.
Former Rivers State Governor, Sir Celestine Omehia described the delivery of the Isiokpo internal roads as historic, saying that Wike has shown love to the people of the area.
Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Engr Samuel Nwanosike assured Wike that the people of the area will support his re-election, because he has done what their brother, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi could not do for them.
In a project description, Rivers State Works Commissioner, Hon Dumnamene Dekor said that the majority of the 11 roads are completely new, while they span 11 kilometres, adding that the roads would boost agro-based businesses in the area.
There was traditional display of the Ekpo masquerades to mark the commissioning.
In a move to grow the economy of Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, last Wednesday, rolled out 15 roads in Okochiri Kingdom.
The 15 roads comprise of one link road and 14 internal roads, constructed to boost connectivity of the ancient riverine community.
Commissioning the 11.5-kilometre Okochiri internal roads, Wike said that his administration resolved to construct the community roads to bring development to the people of the area.
He said with the completion of the Okochiri internal roads, economic activities will appreciate, alongside the improvement of the value of community lands.
“This is pure development to the people of Okochiri town. Now, the people will have access to their communities and the value of land will appreciate.
“We are executing projects and that is why we are commissioning projects. We want good things for our people. Therefore, we will continue to develop our communities”, the governor said.
While commending the people of the area for supporting the contractors to deliver, he lauded former minister of transport, Dr Abiye Sekibo and the Amayanabo of Okochiri, King Ateke Tom for placing their people ahead of personal considerations.
On the forthcoming elections, Wike said that his focus for now was to serve the people, noting that when it is time for politics, he would enter the political mode.
He said: “We are focused on working for the people of Rivers State. Our objective is to deliver. We are masters of this game. This is our job. When the time for politics comes, we will know the professionals”.
The former minister of transport, Dr Abiye Sekibo said with the kind gesture by the Rivers State governor, the Okrika people would support Wike 100 per cent.
“The support of Okrika people for Governor Wike has nothing to do with party politics. It is because he has wiped away the tears of our people.
“Governor Wike must accept our call on him to contest the 2019 General Election. We will contribute to buy the governorship form for him. Our people will deliver the votes”, Sekibo said.
He said though he served at different levels of government, he was unable to attract projects of this nature.
Sekibo, however, said that with his relationship with the Wike administration, he has been able to attract major road projects for his people.
“I can now look my people in the face and say that my relationship with government brought meaningful projects. For us, Okrika people, we have no choice but to stand with Governor Wike in 2019”, he said.
The Rivers State Works Commissioner, Hon Dumnamene Dekor said no roads existed in the area before Wike embarked on the construction of the internal roads.
In his remarks, Chairman of Okrika Local Government Area, Mr Philemon Iwoloma said that the roll out of the internal roads shows Wike’s love for grassroots development.
The occasion was attended by traditional rulers, youth and women groups.
The Amayanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Ateke Tom, in a speech read on his behalf, said Wike has made history by constructing and commissioning projects in the area.
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.