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Rivers Mosque Saga: Where Shekarau, Ganduje Misfired
If only the distinguished Senator Ibrahim Shekarau and the current Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje had availed the bare facts surrounding the recent saga in which the Rivers State Government was falsely accused of demolishing a mosque, they would not have associated themselves with the rather inflammatory statements from them. Both of them reacted most inexcusably in unison to fake news which was launched through a media spin, that the Rivers State Government had demolished a mosque under construction at the Trans Amadi Industrial Area in Port Harcourt. Sensitive as the story was, it had attracted sharp reactions from far and near, including such from these public officers. Incidentally, theirs went overboard in its unmasked reflection of a deep-seated arrogance that is driven by an adversarial inclination. Many considered their responses as intended to stoke embers of strife, in an atmosphere of amity, ostensibly in pursuit of personal interests. The lie to the story was soon after established by the several authorities including the State Governor Nyesom Wike, Islamic leaders in the state, as well as journalists who visited the siteof the purported demolition.
Among the Islamic authorities that debunked the story was Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor, the National Vice President General, Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs as well as leading light in the person of Ustaz Yahaya, Imam Abdullahi who is the Imam in charge of Bori Central Mosque. Both of them along with others clarified that no such mosque was demolished as falsely reported. Abdullahi went further to clarify that there are presently 130 mosques in the Rivers State, apart from other prayer grounds.
From available facts, the land associated with the phantom mosque, is actually public land on which the government enjoys judicial pronouncement in support of its ownership, as far back as the early 1959 during the colonial era and under the defunct Eastern Nigerian government. Subsequent court rulings also placed authority over the land in the River State Government.
With the truth emerging that the story was fake news, matters were expected to simmer down as there remained nothing to fight over. However, such would not be for these two high ranking public officers as they demonstrated scant restraint to mask their suspect intent, their reactions. Firstly, Senator Shekarau’sremains significant firstly for its undue volatility and patent inappropriateness for a national figure of his pedigree. The statement not only featured scurrilous and unprintable content but was slanted to actually present the author as chasing objectives that are beyond the immediate circumstances of the mosque demolition saga. A specific portion of the statement referred to Wike as manifesting the highest forms of “irresponsibility by a so-called elected official in this polity”. Another section of the statement accused Wike of attempting to “truncate the nation’s democracy” as the development was a “serious security threat”. The statement eventually betrayed its ultimate tendentious intent as it went on to cite misgivings over Wike’s governance style, which was summed up as comprising “reckless utterances and actions”. By the way- Shekarau is of the APC while Wike is of the rival PDP. As for Ganduje also of the APC, he, in characteristic Quixotic style threatened to sue Wike over the fake news.
Needless to bother about further comments on the content of the statement as it is not the intention of this column to celebrate whatever uncharitable mission they were intended for by assisting their sponsors to reinforce same in the public domain. Rather, a more dignified purpose here is to lament over the disappointingly hypocritical and opportunistic stand which the statements have placed Shekarau and his co-traveller Ganduje.
For the purpose of clarification, their antecedents and current positions should have precluded them from such unfortunate outbursts. Each of them was in a position to obtain firsthand information from reliable sources including fro direct contact with the Wike. This expectation – even if lost on Ganduje, many Nigerians would understand. But not for Shekarau who is much more of a national figure than his partner. Shekarauhas been a minister of education, two-term governor of strategic Kano State and now a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria representing Kano Central Senatorial District. Ordinarily he qualifies to be seen and accepted across the country as a voice of moderation, who can successfully intervene in any instance of misunderstanding between any of the various disparate ethnic, religious and cultural interests around the country and effect amicable resolution of same.
That is why his reaction is largely seen as most inappropriate especially since it was based primarily on a false premise. Perhaps, it is taking longer than necessary for the message to sink among the country’s leadership circles that from Maiduguri to Lagos and Sokoto to Calabar, as well as among Muslims, Christians and traditionalists, Nigerians are tired of being used as dispensable cannon fodder to serve the former’s parochial interests and ego massage. This angle remains critical for clarification, as it seems to remain a hangover factor in the political calculus which leaders like Shekarau and Ganduje are still indulging in. However it is important to edify them that Nigeria and the Rivers State have moved on to the next level.
Given the strategic nature of Rivers State in the country’s political economy, it has for generations remained a home to all Nigerians regardless of place of origin, economic status as well as religion. Some of the most strategic investments in the state are easily owned by Muslims business leaders who find security and sweet homely comfort in every part of the state including the riverine locations. Just as well travelled, there are Mosques all over the state with no Muslim complaining of ever being denied the right or place to worship. The level of integration between the Rivers people and the rest of Nigerians is built on mutual bonding between and enhanced by shared values and life styles. That is why the alarmist response by Shekarau and Ganduje failed to elicit any sense of panic among the Muslim community.
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.