BY Sarah NEGEDU
A former Ambassador of Nigeria to South Korea, Desmond Akawor, has accused Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, of failing to sustain progress in Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state.
Akawor, who also serves as Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Rivers State, made the allegation on Monday during a “thank you” visit to the area by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
He said residents supported Fubara believing he would continue the development trajectory established during Wike’s tenure.
He alleged that the LGA had not recorded any meaningful movement since 2023, adding that its only visible gain from the administration was the appointment of a commissioner.
“Permit me to speak frankly. If these things are not said now, they may never be said. We elected Governor Siminalayi Fubara with the expectation that Oyigbo would benefit meaningfully from development.
“Your Excellency, development in Oyigbo has stalled. We have not moved an inch forward. The only tangible benefit Oyigbo has received is a commissioner’s slot, which was given to me. Beyond that, nothing substantial has come to our people.”
Akawor also expressed concern about the reported N600 billion in the state treasury, insisting that Oyigbo must not be excluded in the deployment of funds. He said the LGA must receive a fair share if allocations were being distributed.
“We are not asking for favors; we are asking for fairness. Some people who do not contribute or support the process cannot continue to dominate the benefits. That cannot be allowed. All Oyigbo stakeholders present here have spoken with one voice. The few aides with him already know our position,” he said.
The former envoy further commended Wike for restoring normalcy in the area during the period of IPOB activities.
“You restored normalcy and ensured that no Rivers person was profiled or harassed by IPOB. For that alone, we are deeply grateful.
“Our people are not dissatisfied with what you have done for us. Far from it, we are grateful; we are thankful. You entrusted me with mobilization responsibilities, and I acknowledge that confidence,” he said.
