Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has restated commitment of his administration to complete the Ogoni-Opobo-Andoni Unity road project within the lifespan of his administration.
Governor Wike, gave the assurance when the Amayanabo of Opobo Kingdom, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja led a delegation of Chiefs, Elders and Women Leaders on courtesy visit to Government House, Port Harcourt.
The visit was to inform the governor and also invite him to be their special guest of honour at the planned Opobo Kingdom Sesquicentenary celebration that will hold between 24th and 28th December, 2020.
Governor Wike said the unity road project is important to his administration, which is why it must be completed and also to fulfil the promise he made to the Amayanabo that his people would drive home by road this December.
“The road to Opobo Town must be completed. It is a project that is key. I take it personal because I can’t be governor and it is not done.
“I had promised to make it possible for Opobo people to travel home by road this December. I will do everything humanly possible to fulfil that promise,” he said.
The governor also directed the state Surveyor General to commence surveying and measuring of the land in Opobo kingdom that was recently reclaimed by the State Government so that the land can be allocated to the benefitting families.
Governor Wike who expressed regrets that Nigeria hardly rewards hard work and people who have contributed so much to further its growth, particularly noted the landmark achievements of Prof. Sylvanus Cookey when he was the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt
According to the governor, Opobo people must continue to protect their rich history, do nothing to undermine it, and assured them of government’s support towards the success of the activities to celebrate the 150 years of the establishment of Opobo Kingdom.
Governor Wike who noted that the Amayanabo of Opobo Kingdom and his people have been very supportive of his administration and conducted themselves peacefully, urged them to continue in such stead and be assured that they will not be disappointed.
Earlier, in his presentation, the Amayanabo of Opobo kingdom, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja noted that the recent victory of the state government at the Supreme Court over the disputed Suku Oil Well on the Bayelsa-Rivers States’ boundary is another feat for Governor Wike and this has added to other giant development strides that have been driven to change life and landscape of the state.
King Jaja who is also the Chairman of Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council said Opobo Kingdom and the people have lined up several activities to celebrate Opobo Kingdom as they mark 150 years of its establishment.
He told governor Wike that the people have invited him to be their Special Guest of Honour on the 28th December 2020 when there shall be a symbolic display of the landing of King Jaja of Opobo on the shore of a new kingdom.
KELVIN EBIRI
Special Assistant (Media) to the Governor.
November 26, 2020.
