Wike Liberated Oyigbo LG From IPOB As Governor — Amb. Akawor

Former Ambassador to South Korea and Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, has said that Oyigbo Local Government Area was liberated from the grip of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) during the tenure of Nyesom Wike as Governor of Rivers State.

Akawor who stated this today during a “thank you” visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Nyesom Wike, lamented that development in the area was stalled since Wike left office in 2023.

He recalled that Wike’s intervention restored peace and normalcy to Oyigbo communities that were previously subjected to IPOB-enforced sit-at-home orders.

“You liberated Oyigbo from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Without your intervention, our communities would have remained under lockdown every Monday.

“You restored normalcy and ensured that no Rivers person was profiled or harassed by IPOB. For that alone, we are deeply grateful.” Akawor said.

While appreciating Wike’s role in securing the area, the former ambassador expressed disappointment over what he described as the stagnation of development in Oyigbo under the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

According to him, residents of the local government voted for Governor Fubara with the expectation that development would continue from where Wike stopped, but that expectation has not been met.

“Permit me to speak frankly. If these things are not said now, they may never be said.We elected Governor Siminalayi Fubara with the expectation that Oyigbo would benefit meaningfully from development.Your Excellency, development in Oyigbo has stalled.”

“We have not moved an inch forward. The only tangible benefit Oyigbo has received is a commissioner’s slot, which was given to me. Beyond that, nothing substantial has come to our people.”

Akawor further warned that Oyigbo must not be sidelined in the utilisation of the reported ₦600 billion in the state treasury, insisting on equity and fairness in resource allocation.

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

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

He stressed that if funds were to be shared across groups, Oyigbo must receive its fair share and not be shortchanged.

The former envoy reiterated the appreciation of Oyigbo people to Wike for his past efforts in the area and for entrusting him with mobilization responsibilities.

“Our people are not dissatisfied with what you have done for us. Far from it, we are grateful; we are thankful.
You entrusted me with mobilization responsibilities, and I acknowledge that confidence.” Akawor said

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji