“This is a project we have been talking about for many years. But it is now being actualised. So, let me extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast support and commitment to the development of Bayelsa State.”
“Nobody said they were going to blow up the pipeline in Bayelsa or in Gbegena or anywhere. It was just said that pipelines will be torched in the Niger Delta. Those who kept issuing the threat did not specify where they will carry it out. So, this is within the region and very significantly within Rivers State. This is highly political.
As a body that represents the interests of the South-South citizens, PANDEF reaffirmed its dedication to pursuing peace and stability in the region. The forum aims to foster constructive dialogue with the Federal Government to address the situation in Rivers State.
Many Nigerian states, particularly in the North East, North West and North Central geopolitical zones live with daily assaults on their very existence. Yet, no state of emergency has been declared!
“To reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the Rescission of the State of Emergency,”
It is also worth noting that the Constitution outlines specific procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as detailed in Section 188, and similar provisions exist for the removal of members of the House of Assembly and the dissolution of parliament. In the current situation, it appears that these guidelines might not have been fully considered.
“I want to sincerely appreciate my colleague commissioner, Honourable Commissioner for Tourism Hon. John Alah, Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties (West) Hon. Michael Magbisa, Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources Hon. Prof. Beke Sese, Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Hon. Dr. Ebieri Jones, and Honourable Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon. Chief Godspower Oporomo,”
“Anyone who underestimates the fury of the Ijaw people is a fool. Whether Wike was under the influence of hard drugs or alcohol, it is said that ‘out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.”
As insecurity spreads across regions, dialogues of this nature become essential in fostering peace and ensuring the safety of our communities. The Deputy Governor’s initiative to bring together traditional rulers and community leaders reflects a commitment to collaborative governance and to remedying the challenges posed by external threats.
“Mr. President,” Ambassador Igali urged, “we implore you to prevail upon the Honourable Minister to extend due respect to these eminent Nigerians and traditional rulers who were esteemed guests of the Commander-in-Chief. The Minister does not own the Niger Delta, and his conduct should not be condoned.”
