A former Nigerian Ambassador to South Korea and Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, has alleged that development in Oyigbo Local Government Area has stalled under the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Akawor made the claim on Monday during a “thank you” visit to Oyigbo by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
According to him, residents of Oyigbo voted for Governor Fubara with the expectation that he would sustain the pace of development achieved under Wike’s administration, but expressed disappointment over what he described as stagnation since 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 said.
He also raised concerns about the reported ₦600 billion in the state treasury, warning that Oyigbo must not be sidelined in the utilisation of the funds.
“If ₦40 billion is allocated across groups, Oyigbo must not be short-changed. We are not asking for favours; we are asking for fairness,” he stated.
Akawor added that stakeholders in the area were united in their position, insisting that communities that contributed to the political process should not be marginalised in the distribution of development benefits.
However, a former President of the Oyigbo Youths Association, Anayo Michael, disagreed with Akawor’s assessment, saying Governor Fubara has made notable efforts within his two years in office.
Michael pointed to the ongoing Ring Road project, which passes through Oyigbo, describing it as a major achievement that would open up the area, boost economic activities, and ease movement when completed.
“The Ring Road is a major achievement of Governor Fubara. When it is completed, it will open up Oyigbo, improve businesses, and ease movement,” he said.
He also cited the installation of solar-powered street lights in parts of the local government, noting that they have improved security by illuminating the area at night.
Michael further argued that the six-month suspension of the governor had affected the pace of project execution.
“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,” he said.
According to him, the governor should be given more time to deliver on his development agenda.
“I think the governor still has more time to perform and should be allowed to do his job,” Michael added.
