Civil society group criticizes former governor’s leadership in Rivers State

A civil society group, New Rivers Agenda, has issued a statement condemning the leadership of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike. The group, led by its president Johnson Zinaka, accuses Wike of governing the state with a heavy hand and prioritising personal interests over the welfare of the people.

The statement, according to multiple reports, highlights what it describes as “years of intimidation, oppression, and harassment” under Wike’s administration, alleging that he monopolized state resources for his own benefit and that of his associates. Additionally, the group criticises Wike’s post-office conduct, accusing him of ingratitude and attempting to maintain control over the state’s affairs.

New Rivers Agenda, in the statement, asserts support for the current Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, portraying his leadership as a positive departure from Wike’s tenure. They commend Fubara’s efforts to bring about development and transparency in the state, contrasting it with what they perceive as Wike’s autocratic rule.

The statement comes amidst a heated political standoff between Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike, with tensions escalating over control of the state’s political structure. This clash has led to attempts by the state House of Assembly to impeach Governor Fubara, sparking resistance from the governor’s camp.