From Sadiq Ibn Lawal
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has urged the people of Rivers State to approach political activities with a sense of responsibility, condemning the recent burning of the Ikwerre Local Government Council Secretariat by suspected political thugs.
The attack, allegedly carried out by individuals loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, occurred after a police withdrawal, resulting in significant damage to the government facility.
Governor Fubara, who inspected the site of the destruction at Isiokpo, expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
He criticized the act as a reckless political move, lamenting the loss of a government structure built with taxpayers' money under the administration of the previous council chairman.
Fubara emphasized that political differences should never escalate to the level of violence or destruction of public assets, especially projects intended as legacies for future generations.
The governor’s visit to Ikwerre came immediately after his return from Akwa Ibom, where he had joined other South-South governors to offer condolences to Governor Umo Eno, who recently lost his wife.
During his visit, Fubara expressed frustration at the need to redirect funds intended for development toward repairing damaged facilities.
He called on the people of Rivers State to maintain decorum in politics and avoid engaging in destructive actions, even when provoked.
Fubara highlighted that while political tensions may have led to this incident, such actions only hurt the citizens who depend on these facilities for essential services.
He urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the attack and bring those responsible to justice.
The statement was by Signed:
Nelson Chukwudi
Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor.
