By Jemimah Wellington, JKNMedia Reporter
RIVERS STATE Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to resolving the ongoing political crisis in the state through lawful means, urging supporters and residents to eschew violence.
This assurance was given during the official inauguration of the Emohua-Kalabari Road project at Tema Junction in Asari-Toru Local Government Area on Friday.
Speaking at the ceremony, attended by Senator Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West Senatorial District, Fubara emphasized his dedication to leading the state with integrity and adherence to the rule of law.
He thanked the people for their unwavering support during and after the election, highlighting that their backing was more significant than having Assembly members or local government chairmen.
“We will lead as a government that has the fear of God, purposeful for the people. I assure you that we will not let you down,” Fubara stated.
He also called for continued support for the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government and emphasized the importance of protecting government installations in Kalabari land.
The governor addressed the issues of illegal bunkering and infrastructure vandalism, which have depleted state and federal revenues.
He appealed to the youths to desist from such activities, promising a high-powered delegation to engage community leaders in resolving these challenges. “We must not subject ourselves to economic sabotage. It is better we desist from it,” he urged.
Regarding the Emohua-Kalabari Road project, Fubara noted that it was awarded on February 18, 2023, by the previous administration at a cost of N21.2 billion, which only paid N6 billion.
He said his administration then paid the remaining N15.2 billion, completing 70 percent of the project as he assured the residents that the road project, now near completion, was delivered for their benefit.
Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, performing the inauguration, applauded Fubara for his focus and commitment despite political distractions. “Today, we have seen what you are doing. Your love for Rivers’ people and understanding of their challenges are evident in this wonderful road project,” Dickson remarked.
Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, highlighted that the road is 15.24 kilometers long, with significant features including a 5.3-meter width, asphalt thickness of 100 millimeters, a 600-millimeter median divide, and installed streetlights.
The road, initially constructed in the 1990s but later collapsed, now promises improved economic potentials for the four benefiting local government areas: Emohua, Degema, Asari-Toru, and Akuku-Toru.
Deputy Regional Manager of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Engr Rimon Morisho, expressed pride in delivering the project ahead of schedule, while the Vice Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Area, Mrs. Tekena Daphne Wokoma, recounted the hardships faced due to the road’s previous deplorable condition, thanking Governor Fubara for alleviating these challenges.
Fubara concluded the event by directing the Ministry of Works to extend the road from Tema Junction to Abonnema Town, reiterating his administration’s focus on development and inclusivity.
