…assures deputy of development to her hometown
By Amieyeofori Ibim, Port Harcourt
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has specially appreciated the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory ,FCT, Chief Nyesom Wike, for playing a pivotal role in his emergence as governor and that of his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu. He assured that such a privilege will never be taken for granted as his administration remains firmly committed to peace and inclusive development across the State.
The governor noted that his government will continue to sustain every effort geared towards peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of discord. He reiterated that peace remains the bedrock upon which transformation and prosperity can spread to all parts of Rivers State.
Governor Fubara commended traditional rulers, youths and women for promoting unity, while acknowledging those who may have suffered setbacks during recent challenges. According to him, a peaceful and understanding environment is what brings positive change to society.
Responding to concerns raised by his deputy, the governor assured Professor Odu that her hometown, Akabuka in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, will receive a fair share of developmental interventions. He admitted that their first two years in office were faced with turbulence, which made it difficult to attract projects to the community.
He apologized to his deputy for the public ridicule she endured and affirmed that things have now taken a positive turn.
“I can assure you, as your governor, that as soon as we leave here, the process for assessing the internal roads will immediately commence. The Ministry of Education will also be here to evaluate the state of your school, and whatever needs to be done, we will do without delay,” he assured.
Gov. Fubara appealed to the people of Akabuka and the entire ONELGA to continue to uphold peace and togetherness, noting that the reconciliation visible at the reception is proof that peace has truly returned to Rivers State.
He thanked the people for standing firmly by the deputy governor, encouraging them to sustain the support, while promising to continue working harmoniously with her and to accord her the respect she deserves.
Earlier in her remarks, the deputy governor, Prof. Mrs. Ngozi Nma Odu, expressed profound gratitude to the governor for honouring the reception in her name, describing it as a remarkable testament to the bond between her and the Akabuka community.
She revealed how she was previously mocked for not being able to attract projects in two years, especially due to the deplorable state of the Government Secondary School, Akabuka which has not been renovated in two decades. She expressed confidence that the governor’s visit has marked the beginning of renewed hope for her people.
Prof. Odu also acknowledged those who championed her emergence as deputy governor, including former Rivers State Governor, Sir Dr. Peter Odili; the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike; Amb. Desmond Akawor; and Chief Ferdinand Anabraba.
The deputy governor praised the unity and love demonstrated by the Akabuka and Egi people, saying it reflects a level of peace never previously experienced in the community.
In his remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Prof. Jason Osai, applauded Governor Fubara as a symbol of peace, stating that the event represents a celebration of restoration after a crisis era he likened to “184 days of locusts” in the State. He described Prof. Odu as a rare breed and an inspiring role model for the Orashi region and Rivers State at large.
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