LGs devt claims spark debate as Wike visits Oyigbo

A former Ambassador to South Korea and Coordinator, Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, has said the development of Oyigbo Local Government Area in the state has been stalled under Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Akawor stated this on Monday, during a “thank you” visit to the local government area by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

However, a former President of Oyigbo Youths Association, Anayo Michael, disagrees, saying the governor is doing his best in just two years in office.

Akawor said the people of Oyigbo elected Fubara with the belief that he would continue from where Wike stopped in developing the area.

He added that the local government had not moved an inch, since Wike left as governor of the state in 2023.

“Permit me to speak frankly. Development in Oyigbo has stalled. We have not moved an inch forward. The only tangible benefit Oyigbo has received is a commissioner’s slot, beyond that, nothing substantial has come to our people, “ Akawor stated.

Speaking on the N600 billion in the state treasury, he warned that Oyigbo must not be excluded in the utilisation of the funds.

He demanded that if N40 billion was allocated across groups, Oyigbo must not be short-changed.

“We are not asking for favors; we are asking for fairness. Some people who do not contribute or support the process cannot continue to dominate the benefits.

“All Oyigbo stakeholders present here have spoken with one voice. The few aides with him already know our position,” he added.

But former President of Oyigbo Youths, Anayo Michael disagrees, noting that the ongoing Ring Road project which passed through Oyigbo will open up the area and improve economic activities.

He said, “The Ring Road is a major achievement of governor Fubara. When it is complete it will open up up Oyigbo, improve businesses there and ease movement. Again the solar lights going in the area has improved security because it brightens everywhere at night.

“However, you will agree with me that the six months suspension slammed on Fubara was a setback otherwise he would have completed many of the projects.

“So I think the governor still has more time to perform and he should be allowed to do his job”.

Culled from punch