Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has declared that for over three years, the APC Federal Government has done nothing to advance the ideals of independence except failures, excuses, intimidation, insecurity, stealing of elections and weakening of democratic institutions.
Addressing Rivers people during the 58th Independence Day Anniversary at the Sharks Stadium in Port Harcourt on Monday, Governor Wike said that the APC Federal Government has deliberately damaged the National Assembly, the Judiciary, and the security agencies.
He said: “After over three years in power, the Federal Government has done nothing to advance the promise of independence except failures, excuses, intimidation, insecurity, stealing of elections and weakening of democratic institutions, including the National Assembly, the Judiciary, and the security agencies.
“These are difficult times and our nation is on the edge. Democracy is at the crossroads and good governance in abeyance. ”
He regretted that the poor governance style of the APC Federal Government has led to the destruction of the nation’s economy and the impoverishment of Nigerians.
“The economy has remained comatose and is reported receding yet again, with associated economic consequences and hardship on ordinary Nigerians. Never in our history have Nigerians been subjected to untold sufferings as a result of the direct, erratic and ill-conceived economic policies and decisions of the Federal Government.
“Under their watch, our beloved country is now certified as the world headquarters of abject poverty with over 87 million people living below 2 dollars per day”, he said.
Governor Wike urged Nigerians to use the forthcoming 2019 General Election to vote in a leadership that will drive the Federal Government in the right direction.
He said:”We need leaders that would not interfere with our collective rights to live as free citizens and pursue our goals and dreams in peace, security and happiness.
“As 2019 beacons with promise, I hope Nigerians will all rise up to the challenge of leadership and vote for the candidate that would restore our faith in the promise of independence.”
In Rivers State, Governor Wike stated that his administration has translated the New Rivers Development Blueprint into reality through meaningful projects and programmes.
He said: “Today, we are delivering on all our core priorities: our economy is stronger, creating jobs and attracting new investments; our schools are getting better for our children; our healthcare system is delivering better services and our communities are safer.
“Indeed, everyday brings home the progress we have collectively made, the transformational projects we have delivered, the changes in our rural areas and above all, the fact that our State is steadily moving towards the promise of a new Rivers State with boundless opportunities for all.”
The 58th Independence Anniversary Celebration was marked by parade by the Police, Para-Military Organisations and Schools.
Victorious organisations were rewarded with prizes presented by dignitaries.
Highpoint of the celebration was the release of the peace pigeons by the Rivers State Governor and the inspection of parade.
