Ambassador Desmond Akawor has ignited a crucial debate, alleging that development in Oyigbo Local Government Area has significantly stagnated since Governor Siminalayi Fubara took office. This claim, made during a pivotal “thank you” visit by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, underscores a growing concern among residents and political stakeholders in Rivers State. The core of the matter revolves around unfulfilled expectations and a perceived halt in the progress that characterized previous administrations. For many, the question of why Oyigbo development is stagnant is not merely political but deeply impacts the daily lives and economic prospects of its people.
The context of these strong assertions stems from a recent visit where Minister Wike was received by various community leaders, including Akawor, the Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors. Akawor, a former Nigerian Ambassador to South Korea, used the platform to voice the frustrations of Oyigbo residents. They had voted for Governor Fubara with a clear expectation: to continue and build upon the substantial developmental strides previously recorded. However, Akawor’s lament paints a picture of disillusionment, suggesting that these hopes have largely gone unmet.
Under the previous administration, Oyigbo was reportedly a hub of activity, witnessing significant infrastructure projects and economic initiatives designed to uplift communities. Residents recall a period of consistent progress that fostered optimism for the future. The current administration, however, is accused of failing to maintain this momentum, leading to a palpable sense of stagnation that permeates discussions within the local government area. The appointment of a commissioner from the area is cited as the only visible gain, a point that, according to Akawor, falls far short of the community’s broader developmental needs.
What is the Fubara Wike conflict? The underlying tension between Governor Fubara and Minister Wike is a significant factor shaping the political landscape and development narrative in Rivers State. This rivalry, often characterized by public disagreements and a struggle for influence, directly impacts governance and resource allocation, particularly in areas like Oyigbo.
Further exacerbating the situation are reports concerning a substantial N600 billion in the state’s treasury. Akawor passionately raised concerns that Oyigbo should not be sidelined in the allocation and utilization of these crucial funds. He firmly insisted that if N40 billion is being distributed among various groups, Oyigbo must receive its fair share, advocating for an equitable distribution that reflects the community’s contributions and needs. This demand for fairness highlights the broader challenges of resource management and political representation within the state.
“We are not begging for special treatment; we are demanding equity,” Akawor declared, emphasizing that those who contributed and supported the political process should not be overlooked while others reap disproportionate benefits. This sentiment resonates deeply with many who feel their loyalty and efforts during past elections have not translated into tangible improvements in their communities. The call for equity is a powerful statement against perceived marginalization and a demand for transparent, inclusive governance.
Leaders and stakeholders from Oyigbo Local Government Area are reportedly united in their position, having already made their stance known to the governor’s aides. This collective voice underscores the gravity of the situation and suggests a broad-based desire for immediate and meaningful intervention. Their unity indicates a shared commitment to advocating for the welfare and progress of their communities, pushing for a resolution to the ongoing developmental impasse.
Ambassador Akawor also expressed profound gratitude to Minister Wike for what he described as the liberation of Oyigbo communities from the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Wike’s decisive intervention, he noted, was instrumental in restoring peace and ending the weekly lockdowns that had crippled economic and social activities in the area. This historical context provides a critical backdrop to the current political dynamics, highlighting Wike’s previous impact on the region’s stability and prosperity.
“Without your action, our communities would still be under constant lockdown every Monday,” Akawor stated, acknowledging the vital role Wike played in bringing back normal life and ensuring that Rivers people were no longer intimidated or profiled. This act of restoring security and normalcy remains a significant point of appreciation for Wike’s tenure, further contrasting it with the perceived current lack of progress.
Akawor further thanked Wike for entrusting him with significant mobilization responsibilities, noting that the confidence reposed in him would not be taken for granted. This personal endorsement highlights the deep political ties and loyalty within certain factions of Rivers State politics, which inevitably influence the narrative around governance and development. Understanding these relationships is key to grasping the complexities of why Oyigbo development is stagnant and the political forces at play.
The current political climate in Rivers State demands a clear focus on governance that addresses the core needs of its citizens. The accusations of stagnant development in Oyigbo serve as a potent reminder that political transitions must not derail essential progress. The community’s call for equitable resource allocation and sustained development is a fundamental plea for effective leadership that prioritizes the welfare of all, ensuring that the promise of progress is not just a slogan but a lived reality for every local government area. Ultimately, the question of why Oyigbo development is stagnant remains a critical challenge for the current administration to address comprehensively.
