The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed optimism that the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State is coming to a conclusive end due to a definitive new intervention from President Bola Tinubu.
This occurred as Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara pledged to honor the request of his political mentor, Wike, affirming that the road envisioned by Wike would be finished promptly.
While addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja, following a review of various ongoing projects in the area, the minister emphasized the president’s function as a unifying leader whose guidance was crucial in resolving tensions between the state’s executive and legislative branches.
He said, “I believe that by the grace of God, this will be the last time the president will be bothered with this issue, and that this will be the last time the Rivers people will need to hear this kind of discord.”
Wike stressed the authority of the president’s counsel, noting, “The president is the father of the nation, and when a father speaks, his children must listen and do the needful to ensure peace and progress.”
Speaking on the specifics of the truce and the expectations for both the Rivers State House of Assembly and Fubara, the minister was clear about the path forward.
He said, “The House of Assembly will do what they are supposed to do, and I am confident that the governor will also carry out the acts required of him to ensure this peace is sustainable.”
Wike emphasized that the focus on stability was now paramount, declaring, “The key issue is for Rivers State to advance, and we appreciate Mr. President for his unwavering dedication to achieving this consensus.”
In the meantime, Fubara confirmed yesterday that the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, spanning over 50 km and initiated by Wike, will be finished and delivered by October this year.
Fubara provided confirmation following his evaluation of the road project, which spans a minimum of five local government areas in the state and aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Port Harcourt and nearby communities.
He characterized the Ring Road as a key infrastructure initiative, pointing out that it was envisioned by his predecessor, Wike, and continues to play a vital role in the state’s comprehensive urban and economic growth strategy.
He said, “This project is very important considering the person who conceived it, my Oga, the minister. He had a very big vision. He believed that if I achieved this project in record time, people would be happy with me.
“Notwithstanding whatever is happening, it is also my wish and my struggle to ensure that that wish comes through. So, you can understand the importance of this project to us and to everyone who means well to our dear states.”
Fubara stated that the construction firm managing the project, Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, has reiterated its dedication to adhering to the delivery schedule, as long as funding stays consistent.
The governor confirmed that despite ongoing issues in the state, his administration would persist in providing funding to guarantee continuous advancement on the project, consistent with his promise to the people of Rivers State.
Remember that the Port Harcourt Ring Road project was initiated for construction at the start of the Fubara administration, with an estimated completion period of 36 months.
