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Speed Up Investigations, Trials To Decongest Prisons, Fubara Urges Police, Judiciary …As Reps Affirm Low Crime Rate In Rivers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called for speedy investigation of suspects arrested for crime and taken through unimpeded process of legal trails to ensure that they did not eventually get dumped in the correctional centres unduly on awaiting trial list.
This, he said, will place more demand on the Nigeria Police Force and the Judiciary to rise up to the challenge of ensuring that their institutions truly function effectively towards achieving desired successes of decongesting correctional centres and dispensing justice.
Governor Fubara insisted that such approach will contribute largely to solving the incidences of overcrowded correctional centres with awaiting trial inmates across the country, including the attendant financial burden required for their upkeep.
The Governor gave the charge when he received the House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions, led by its Chairman, Hon. Chinedu Ogah, on a courtesy visit to Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.
The Governor said: “I know that the State Government, from time to time, I mean, through the Chief Judge, had visited the Correctional Centres, and after evaluation, and I have seen a few letters he has written about what he saw on his visit, and having confirmed, and accessed a few of the inmates, he had granted them either bail or pardon.
“But this issue goes back to one major thing: institutions that we call the Police Force and the Judiciary. Most of these issues that we are talking about; overcrowding of the Correctional Centres, might be due to delay in the trial of their cases. That is the truth.
“The other aspect is that you arrest somebody wrongfully or whatever, and the process of investigation takes two, three, four years. So, we need to make sure that our institutions are functioning effectively.
“And, if they are functioning effectively, I strongly believe that most of these issues of over-crowding of the Correctional Centres won’t be there.”
Governor Fubara said: “But, this is where we are, and we will continue to encourage our system to do it better. Maybe, if we had made these complaints earlier, some of the corrections would have been done.
“So, now that we are saying it, I believe they are hearing, and they will expedite action to make sure that some of these things are put to check.”
The Governor said his administration is focused on the need of Rivers people, adding that while addressing those needs, it is also mindful of the importance of properly integrating ex-convicts into the society.
Governor Fubara, however, advised: “We also need to ensure that proper evaluations are done to ensure that we are not endangering our people.
“It is not just to say we need to reintegrate them. We also need to do the proper thing to make sure that when they leave the centres, they can fit into the society.
“I think even in the Correctional Centres, they have vocational activities there. Some of them have the opportunity of running academic programmes online.
“So, first of all, they should also show this commitment that they want to change, that they want to be part of the system, coming back to the society, and we as a government, will do all we can make it possible.”
The Governor expressed delight that issues of the correctional centres attracted the attention of the National Assembly, which means that government is alive and up to its responsibility.
Governor Fubara also thanked members of the committee for the visit, and acknowledging the modest achievements of his administration so far, particularly in ensuring a reduction of crime in the State compared to what was inherited.
He said, “It goes to say just one thing: we know what the problem is, and we are tackling the problem from the root cause.
“What is the problem associated with crime: unemployment, insecurity. This insecurity is economic insecurity and that is what causes crime.
“It is a global issue, though but as a State, we will continue to do our best to see to it that our youths are engaged meaningfully, and are discouraged from associating with anything that will bring bad image to our State.”
Governor Fubara explained that his administration has continued to support the Controller of the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre with monthly subvention to assist in the day-to-day running of his office as well as other levels of assistance.
The Governor noted that most of the correctional centres were built over 80 years ago when nobody envisaged that the number of inmates will increase astronomically as witnessed now.
But he said that what the Federal Government is doing in the State by building new facilities to house inmates and the plan to relocate correctional centres in the city centre will be something to support.
“I will mandate the Secretary to the State Government to go and access what is going on there, and liaise with the appropriate authorities and see where we can come in to complete it so that this issue of having these Correctional Centres in the centre of the city which is not a good idea, at least, we can solve that problem once and for all.”
Governor Fubara charged the committee to play its part effectively by making the requisite laws and secure the legislative backing that can eventually correct the mistakes that have been noticed.
He explained, “It shouldn’t be something we just put in our Constitution. It should be given all the strength of implementation or execution of those laws. So, you should help us, do it right, and we will take it from there on the part of execution which is the duty of the Executive.”
Speaking further, Governor Fubara said: “Let me thank you, more especially for coming to see us. Let me on behalf of the Government and the good people of Rivers State, assure you that you have not made any mistake.
“You have done the right thing, and you have taken the right step. I believe that by the end of your visit, you are going to come up with recommendations that are going to help us solve some of these problems.
“But in all, we all have to put hands together to support this administration of our President. Nigeria is a very big and complex society; different ideologies, multi-cultural beliefs, social differences, but we are all here as one because of the flag of Nigeria.
“So, what we need to do is to ensure that we work as one, on one common interest to make sure that we sustain this entity called Nigeria. If Nigeria succeeds, we all succeed. And Nigeria will only succeed when we support the President.
“If Nigeria fails, everybody fails. The sub-nationals, like Rivers State, and any other state will also fail. You can’t succeed just as a state. Your success must be extended to the centre,” he added.
In his speech, the leader of the delegation and Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions, Hon. Chinedu Ogah, explained that they are in Rivers State to oversight all the Correctional Institutions domiciled in the State.
Hon. Ogah noted the gross neglect that the Correctional Service has suffered in the country, particularly in the aspect of security.
He listed four Correctional Service centres in Rivers State to include Port Harcourt, Ahoada, Degema and the Farm Settlement; with each housing about 4,000 inmates, adding that 91 percent of such inmates are awaiting trial.
Hon. Ogah said: “And most of these people are not yet convicted, and some of them are not being justified: what the case is all about. And the major issue, the negligence aspect of the security, is that they don’t care how to reintegrate, reform, bring them back into the society so they cannot indulge in crime.
“If we really look into it, we find out that, that is the only way we can ensure the security of lives and property in this country, by making sure that those we feel have already committed crimes are reformed and reintegrated into the society by giving them skills and opportunity so that they can have something to feed, and not go back to crime.
“And Your Excellency, from our records, we found out that since your assumption of office, there has been reduction of crime rate in Rivers State because of what you have done by empowering the youths in all the local governments economically, in all the wards by giving them a sense of belonging too. We have to commend you for that.”
Hon Ogah said further: “Rivers State is one of the places where the construction of 3,000-capacity centres is ongoing in Bori, and this construction has gotten up to 60 percent.
“But Your Excellency, you know the truth: Federal Government cannot do it alone, and as a Governor that knows the problems of the people, that is our essence of coming to you to partner with the Committee on Reformatory Institutions to know what we can do together to relocate that correctional service centre.”
He, therefore, solicited the support of the State Government to make the initiative of the Federal Government succeed for the peace and development of Rivers State and Nigeria.
News
Work on Eleme Road delaying fuel distribution from PH Refinery – PETROAN
The Petroleum Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has expressed concern over the slow pace of work by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) on the Eleme East-West Road project, Port Harcourt axis.
The National President of PETROAN, Dr Billy Harry, in a statement yesterday, said that the delay was happening in spite of the N33 billion said to have been released by the Federal Ministry of Works, for the project.
Harry decried the challenges the deplorable road posed, saying that it was sabotaging President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to ensure the smooth distribution of petroleum products from the renovated Port Harcourt Refinery.
“Thousands of petroleum trucks will be using the road to convey products from the renovated Port Harcourt refinery, so, further delay is detrimental.
“The Eleme East-West Road is a critical route for the transportation of petroleum products, and its safety is paramount.
“The road’s deplorable condition poses a significant risk to trucks carrying petroleum products, which could lead to catastrophic accidents and environmental disasters.
“PETROAN is calling on the President to evaluate the ongoing contract by RCC in line with the contract timeline.
“This move will consolidate his renewed hope agenda by ensuring the timely completion of the Eleme East-West Road project.”
Harry said that about 60 retail outlets were negatively impacted by the road construction, and requested adequate compensation for owners of the fuel stations.
He recalled that the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in a press conference, had also complained about the slow approach of RCC, leading to the issuance of a seven-day ultimatum by the Minister.
“Furthermore, PETROAN is calling on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to fast-track the contract evaluation process and take decisive action to address the slow pace of work by RCC.
News
Old Students’ Association Marks Anniversary
The Rivers Secondary Schools Old Boys and Girls 1983 Set Association marked its one year anniversary in Port Harcourt on 22nd December 2024.
The association is a body of old boys and girls of 1983 graduating set of secondary schools in Rivers State, Nigeria conceptualised to provide opportunities for reconnection and reminiscing over old times, networking, creating avenues for personal and professional growth, fostering friendships and celebrating milestones.
The one year anniversary gathering which took place at Galaxy PHD Event Centre, in GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, brought together different professionals and was heralded with classic photo shoot session, free speeches and talks on how to move the association to greater heights. It was rounded off with a dinner.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the association, Chief Hope Kuku, congratulated members for the one year anniversary.
He encouraged members to reach out to more classmates in order to grow the association as the advantages are enormous in terms of business growth and social interactions.
He said he was already looking forward to a steady growth of the Association to mark the 10th anniversary.
Also speaking, the President of the association, Barrister Tubokumba Harry, described the last one year of the association as “exciting and really fulfilling” promising to “get more of our set mates on board”.
He stated that the coming together as classmates of the same set would inculcate a bond built on shared experiences which can enhance communication skills, promote teamwork and collaboration with lasting memories that members would cherish in the future.
In her own remarks, the Secretary General of the association, Dr (Mrs) Ibinabo Ogolo said one year down the memory lane of the association has been wonderful as members have not only shared experiences but made significant strides towards achieving the aim and objectives of the association.
“We successfully organised programmes like celebrating the Day of the African Child with students of Government Technical College, Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt.
Also, a Road Walk and Health Awareness campaign through Port Harcourt streets to create awareness and sensitize the people of Rivers State on the health importance of walking.
The association also organised a “Hang-Out” session for members on 1st October, 2024 to foster relationships and networking and also joined other groups to relieve stress and depression at the Enjoyment Mega Sit Out at Port Harcourt Club in Port Harcourt.
These activities brought our members and community together”. She said.
On his part, the Chairman of the anniversary planning committee, Mr Tammy Owunaka noted that the association in just one year had grown to enviable height providing a platform for former classmates to reconnect, network and give back to the society.
Furthermore, he stated that the association created opportunities for professional mentorship, developments, and collaboration, thereby helping members to advance in their aspects of endeavour and personal lives.
He said that through the association, members have demonstrated that power of collective action and social responsibility can propel an organisation and commended the sense of belonging and camaraderie among members.
Also speaking, the legal adviser of the association, Barrister Ngozi Ajayi noted that though the association is only one year old, it was already walking on a purposeful path and urged members to remain committed to and focused to make the association one of the best in the state.
In his remarks, Barrister Sylvester Adaka, who is a former Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch and a memeber of the association stated that so far the association is on the right path but will progress better with more classmates on board.
He commended the classic photo shoot session as a great way to portray the individual personalities of members, adding that he was looking forward to more events.
News
Nothing’ll Stop Governance In Rivers, Fubara Assures …Says We Won’t Allow Anyone Take State For A Ride
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured that his administration will not leave any stone unturned to checkmate and frustrate anyone or group of persons attempting to stop government from delivering good governance to the good people of the State.
He also assured that with the strong support of the pillars and frontiers of the political class and leaders, particularly those who built the foundational structures of Rivers politics, his administration will not allow any detractor or shenanigan take the State and its people for a ride going forward.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance while addressing Rivers people at a 2025 New Year State Banquet in Government House, Port Harcourt.
He expressed confidence that with the strong organic support of former governors, Dr Peter Odili and Sir Celestine Omehia; former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Sir Austin Opara; former deputy governors, Sir Gabriel Toby and Engr Tele Ikuru; Senators John Azuta-Mbata, Lee Maeba, Andrew Uchendu, Adawari Michael Pepple; former national chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus; former transport minister, Dr Abiye Sekibo; Amb Orji Ngofa; and other former and current elected political office holders and leaders at all levels, with proven integrity and accomplishments, no detractor would stand on the way of the State Government in achieving the giant strides it has set for itself.
The Governor said this year, “We will ensure we protect the integrity of this state, at all cost. We won’t allow anybody take this state for a ride. It doesn’t matter the approach I will use. It’s not going to be a fight. We will follow the issues as we did with the case when they (detractors) started begging. Nothing will stop us from not achieving the purpose of governance in this State.”
With strong confidence and faith in God and the people, the Governor said, “We are not bothered about what they (opposition) will come with. God will always have a way to save us from them. They are going to come, but we are not worried. We are equal to the task. I honestly thank our leaders, from Dr. Peter Odili, Sir Celestine Omehia, Sen John Azuta Mbata, Sir Austin Opara, Prince Uche Secondus, Dr. Abiye Sekibo; to others, for the organic support you are giving to our government.
“A lot of persons would not understand what is really happening. This is not to say we did not have people that were with us and following us and fighting. But one of the troubles they (detractors) have where they are today is that they do not have any (strong) face (in Rivers politics) with them. The beginning and the end of politics in this State is Sir Peter Odili. And if he is sitting with us (here), and with these other persons, who do they have with them?
“This Dr. Odili is the right face and right image of our State. These are the frontiers of Rivers State politics. Men and women that have distinguished themselves are sitting with us (here). People who have contributed in several ways to make Rivers State what it is, not rented people they bring for dinner”, he added.
He recalled that the events of 2024, were a mix bag of daunting challenges, but quickly added that the year ended with his administration scoring more gains than losses, “2024 was not an easy year, but it was great for us in the end. About this time last year, we were not in a very pleasant mood, for fear of what might happen, because of the boasting of those who believe they control life”.
But while boldly projecting the 2025 outlook, the Governor said, “We will continue to put our trust in God as 2024 had been a wonderful year. We had our losses, and our gains. But the most important thing is that our gains surpassed the losses. We can boldly say 2024 was a good year for Rivers State. And year 2025, with your support, we are going to build on the gains of last year.”
He restated his administration’s determination to sustain the Rivers First policy, saying, “We will continue to protect the lives of our people and provide the required services in our State. We are not going to lower our guards. Rather, we will raise our bar because, what is speaking for us today is the achievements we are making in the face of obvious distractions.
“Therefore, raising the bar will be our own way of telling the world that no matter what is happening here, we mean well for the state and know what we are doing. It is not going to be easy. I know. God, at times, keeps evil people to live long to continue their evil, not because He does not know what to do but activities of evil people also keep the righteous people awake,” he stressed.
Governor Fubara commended everyone in the State for their organic support, and solicited for more support in 2025, emphasising, “We are not going to do it alone, because we have not made these gains alone. Whatever win we scored today, it is not myself alone, but the government and the support received from every one of you. I cannot pay you back for doing what is right for your State. It is our State, and at the end of the day, we are building a better future for those to take over after us. That is my own dream for the State.”
The Governor noted that it is not about power and what is done today, but sustaining a system that will be self-preserving, on which everyone can stand and be proud of the State, explaining, “I strongly believe that because of our desire to build, not our (private) supermarkets, or our hotels, but to build a (resilient) State, there is no way we will not succeed, because our interest is not for self, but the collective interest of our people.”
He assured that 2025 is going to be a year of all-round achievements, declaring that by February, 2025, his administration will embark on projects’ commissioning in other sectors, emphasising, “This time around, not roads. Our Fire Service, you can see what we are doing there. For over nine years, there was no functional Fire Service, but today, I can proudly tell you that we have bought all the vehicles, and we are remodelling the offices”.
The Governor added, “Education is the only instrument that can help our youths to avoid criminality and crime. Our State is behind in education, as our primary schools are shadows of themselves. You can see the provisions we made in our budget, and we are making sure education is given the required attention in this State.
“We have done much on health but we are going to spend more because you have to be alive to work. We are doing what we know is right, and doing those things that you can stand anywhere after our administration to defend us that our decisions were right. Nothing will stop us from achieving the purpose of governance in this State”, he vowed.
In his welcome remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, noted that the outgone year had been a wonderful one, and commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, for being focused as an emancipator of the State, saying no matter the antics of the enemies, their acts to distract the government will continue to fail.
While proposing the toast for the New Year, member representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon Awaji-Inombek Abiante, said that Governor Fubara’s leadership qualities are a testament to the success of the administration, and prayed for the peace, unity and prosperity of the State, urging the “prodigals” to return home to join in the rebuilding of the Treasure Base of the Nation for future generations.
Highlight of the event was the cutting the New Year Cake by the Governor, who was joined by his Deputy, Prof Ngozi Odu; Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Victor Oko-Jumbo; former governors Peter Odili and Celestine Omehia; Hon Austin Opara; Prince Uche Secondus; retired Justice Mary Odili (JSC); Chief Judge of the State, Justice Chibuzor Simeon Amadi; President, Customary Court of Appeal, Wilfred Ihemnacho Obuzor; Senators John Azuta Mbata, Lee Maeba, Andrew Uchendu, Adawari Pepple; Amb Orji Ngofa; and others.
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