Wilson Adekumola
The Govrnor of Rivers State Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has called on the opposition political parties that lost in the March 18, 2023 governorship election in the state to support the governor-elect, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, to ensure a sustainable development in the state.
Wike stressed that those who are going to tribunal should truncate the plan and join hands with the governor-elect to continue with the infrastructural development and enhance a peaceful coexistence.
According to Leadership, Wike made this call on Sunday during the Peoples Democratic Party thanksgiving service held at All Saints Cathedral, Anglican Communion, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt, in honour of the governor-elect, his deputy and other elected representatives of Rivers State at the national and state House of Assembly.
Wike said, “I urge those who are going to tribunal that they should leave it, let Rivers State move forward. Support the governor-elect to move Rivers State forward.”
The governor explained that those who vowed to seek legal redress at the election petition tribunal, knew the people of Rivers were against them at the poll for defrauding the state government of $50 million, noting approaching the tribunal is aimed at distracting the governor-elect just as they did to his administration.
He said, “If we were not focused, we would have been distracted and that is what they want to do now, by making sure the governor-elect is distracted. I want to urge you (Fubara) don’t be afraid.
“God who gave you the mantle will never disappoint you. Be focused, and do the work you have been elected for. Leave the tribunal for your lawyers to do their work. Focus in your work. God will lead you through.”
While commending on the amazing developments achieved by his administration in all the 23 local government areas of the state since 2015, the governor stated it would be insincere for any political party to allege the PDP of rigging the 2023 election in the State.
He said, “We are proud and that is why we are able to sell ourselves. When people say there was fraud, I ask fraud committed by who? You mean with all we have done, with what PDP has showcased about the performance of the administration in this state, that we will bother ourselves on how to rig election. Certainly not possible.”
The governor appealed to the church to fervently intercede and make supplication for the governor-elect and his incoming administration to succeed.
He noted that Rivers is a very strategic state and lots of persons within and outside the state have vested interest in it.
Wike urged his successor to be firm and resolute in defending the interest of the state irrespective of whose horse is gored.
He said he had defended the state and was proud that, “As I am going, I am going very satisfied. My shoulders are high that I am finishing well because that has been my dream.”
He also called on those elected to represent the State in the National Assembly not allow thier interest overwheim the interest of the State.
