Connect with us

Politics

Desist from disrupting peace in Rivers, PDP tells ex-LG chairmen

Published

on

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked the immediate past LG chairpersons in Rivers to desist from any conduct “capable of disrupting the peace” in the state.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP spokesperson, said the former LG chairpersons ought to vacate their positions since their tenure has expired.

“The PDP, therefore, counsels the former Rivers State Local Government Council Chairmen to desist from any action that may constitute disruption in local government administration in the state,” the statement reads.

On Tuesday, Siminialayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, asked the heads of local government administration to immediately assume control of the 23 council areas of the state.

Despite the governor’s directive, some of the former LGA chairpersons reportedly attempted to resume duty at the council secretariat, but they were chased away by youths.

The development sparked political tension in Rivers as residents protested at some of the LGA secretariats in the state.

Police officers fired multiple shots into the air to disperse protesters at the various LGA headquarters.

On Wednesday, Fubara swore in new caretaker committee chairpersons in the 23 LGAs in the state.

The ceremony was held at the government house in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Wednesday morning.

The party called on the people of Rivers to remain calm and law-abiding and continue to work together for the continued stability and peace of the state.

THE RIVERS LGA CRISIS

In April, the Rivers assembly passed the local government amendment bill into law despite Fubara’s refusal to give his assent.

The amendment empowers the lawmakers, via resolution, to extend the tenure of elected chairpersons of LGAs and councillors, where it is considered impracticable to hold elections before the expiration of their three-year term in office.

The Rivers assembly said the amendment was to ensure that LGA elections were conducted before the expiration of the administration.

Fubara declined assent to the bill, but the assembly vetoed his decision.

However, a court judgment nullified the amendment to the local government law.

The judgment was appealed, and the appeal court is expected to deliver a ruling on June 20.

The 27 house of assembly members had said they would resist attempts by Fubara to install caretaker chairpersons in the 23 LGAs.

Politics

Democracy must be protected, nurtured – Fubara

Published

on

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, the protection of fundamental human rights, and the promotion of inclusive democratic participation for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.

In his Democracy Day message on Thursday, Governor Fubara emphasized that his administration remains focused on protecting lives and property, while upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance.

He pledged to continue defending the interests of Rivers State and to lead a government grounded in fairness and openness.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, Fubara called for unity and collaboration across political lines to build a society where every citizen is heard, empowered, and encouraged to contribute to collective progress.

Addressing the recent political tensions in Rivers State, including his own suspension alongside other elected officials, the governor described these events as a stark reminder of democracy’s fragility and the need for constant vigilance in its preservation.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Governor Fubara acknowledged that Rivers State’s democratic journey has seen both triumphs and setbacks, all of which underscore the importance of remaining steadfast to democratic ideals.

He highlighted his administration’s commitment to fairness, civil liberties, and institutional oversight, noting that deliberate efforts have been made to foster inclusion, accountability, and openness, essential pillars for sustaining democracy for future generations.

Despite the challenges faced, Fubara expressed confidence in the resilience and determination of the people of Rivers State, as he urged citizens to “approach this critical moment with unity, courage, and renewed purpose”, emphasizing that “the state’s future depends on collective action, innovation, and shared aspirations.”

He also paid tribute to past leaders whose sacrifices laid the groundwork for today’s democratic gains, reminding citizens to honour that legacy by upholding the values they fought for.

Governor Fubara encouraged Rivers people to act with patriotism, dedication, and a sense of responsibility, just as he expressed optimism that, through collective effort and determination, Rivers State will emerge stronger and more united.

Continue Reading

Politics

We’ve Just Finished Renovating Conference Centre With N39B When Our Children Don’t Have Light- Peter Obi ‎

Published

on


‎Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi has condemned the extravagant lifestyle of Nigerian politicians while basic education infrastructure remains in shambles.

‎Speaking during an interview with SYMFONI TV where he donated computers to Chibok girls, Obi decried the disconnect between political spending and the suffering of ordinary Nigerians, especially students.

‎”We have just finished renovating our conference centre with 39 billion naira when our children in school don’t have light, they don’t have computer, their classrooms are leaking, they don’t have water.”

‎Peter Obi who is Known for his meticulous approach to governance and strong emphasis on education, reiterated that no nation can progress when its leaders prioritize personal comfort over the welfare of its youth.

Continue Reading

Politics

I’ll continue to give Tinubu’s enemies high blood pressure – Wike

Published

on

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has vowed to ensure that President Bola Tinubu’s enemies develop high blood pressure.

Wike said he had realised that Tinubu’s opponents are unhappy with his good works since assuming office in 2023.

The minister made this statement during the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way) from Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), along with other roads in the Katampe district of capital city, by President Tinubu on Wednesday.

Wike recalled how he came to understand, while watching television, that some individuals harbour resentment towards Tinubu.

The minister vowed to continue rolling out commendable projects that would cause further dismay to the President’s critics.

He said: “Sometimes, I don’t know, spiritually I was touched. I was just touched to turn it (TV) on, and I was watching, and I didn’t realise that people could be in pain, but now I know that such people are in pain.

“I now must make sure I continue to give them high blood pressure. As they continue to be in pain, it’ll be sweetening us, and that’s now my job.

“I’ll be happy, moving around, and laughing every time, and they’ll be there shouting, fighting, and killing themselves. So, Mr President, thank you for being part of this revolution.”

Continue Reading

Trending