PRESS RELEASE BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE

My dear Rivers People,

I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

Since assuming office as your Governor, all my actions and decisions have been guided by my constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.

We prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.

Even in the face of the political impasse, we have remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.

This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.

Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court's judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.

These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.

Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult.

Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.

Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.

At this critical time, I urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.

We have always been resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.

God bless Rivers State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sir, Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS

A Heartbreaking Discovery: Kidnapping Den Uncovered in Imo State

Too many families in Igboland have suffered unimaginable pain, losing their loved ones to the hands of kidnappers. The recent discovery of a kidnapping camp at the boundary between Umuosinta Amuzi Obowo and Iheteafor-Ukwu Ahiazu Mbaise in Imo State has once again exposed the horrors many have endured in silence.

At this site, unmarked graves were found—silent witnesses to the fate of victims who never made it home. Some were reportedly murdered even after their families paid ransom, while others were killed outright. Scattered among the graves were stolen vehicles—Toyota Avalons, Range Rovers, Toyota Camrys, Lexus models—belonging to individuals whose fates were cruelly sealed by these criminals.

Reports indicate that this gang operates from Port Harcourt. After carrying out their evil acts in Imo State, they retreat there to hide, only to return and continue their reign of terror in the Obowo axis. Just this past Monday, witnesses say they came back to move two stolen cars, likely to sell them off.

This discovery is a painful reminder of the insecurity that plagues our land. But it is also a call to action. Our communities must stand together, and our authorities must act swiftly to dismantle these networks of terror. No family should have to endure the agony of losing a loved one in such a cruel manner.

Let’s not look away. Let’s demand justice.

#JusticeForVictims #EndKidnapping #SecureOurCommunities

Anambra Government Shuts Down Church Over Alleged Oke Ite Practices

The Anambra State Government has sealed off a church in Nkpor, Idemili North LGA, led by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha a k.a Onyeze Jesus, over alleged Oke Ite practices. The closure followed public petitions and a viral video where the pastor admitted to performing controversial rituals.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, led the enforcement team, stating that while the government respects religious freedom, it will not tolerate exploitative practices. Authorities have seized liquid substances for forensic testing and plan to analyze the waters of "River Bethsaida", allegedly used for questionable rituals.

The government urges the public to report harmful religious activities as investigations continue.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on North Central Development Commission (NCDC), Senator Titus Zam, Benue North West (APC), has said that the NCDC will help rebuild the zone.

Sen Zam, who disclosed this during the funeral oration for the late Tyoor Augustine Azer Tingir, District Head of Saghev/Ukusu at Naka, Gwer West Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, further said the commission will also help tackle the challenges of insecurity facing north-central Nigeria.

Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) signed into law a bill establishing the NCDC on February 4, 2025. Senator Zam is the pioneer Senate Committee Chairman of the commission.

"With this commission, I know that there is somewhere to run to," Senator Zam told his audience, noting that a similar commission in the South and North East is developing the aforementioned regions.

According to the Benue North West Senator, the problems facing the zone will soon be tackled. He explained that by Tuesday next week, the budget for the commission will be presented before the National Assembly, and once passed, funding will be available for the commission to take off.

Already, political leaders in the zone have met to fine-tune arrangements for the NCDC's smooth takeoff.

Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, said after the meeting that the leaders met to chart "the best path forward for the NCDC to drive security, economic growth, and sustainable development across the North Central Zone in our collective quest to strengthen the region, provide lasting solutions to our challenges, and unlock opportunities for our people."

Credit: The News Times.

#benue_newspoint