Rivers Landlords Commend Fubara on Infrastructure, Other Devt

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has been commended for his government’s developmental strides on infrastructure projects, health, education, and others across communities in the state.

The commendation was made yesterday by landlords in the state under the aegis of Rumuokania II New Layout Landlords Association while addressing journalists in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

Led by the Chairman, Pastor Joel Gbandi, and Secretary, Lucky Atiegoba, the group appreciated Governor Fubara for the construction of the Rumuoke/Pipeline internal roads.  They stated that the visible impact of Fubara’s administration across all sectors, particularly the rehabilitation and construction of new roads, has rekindled hope among the people and brought prosperity to their communities.

They further acknowledged with gratitude the transformative governance going on in Rivers State under what they described as the impactful leadership of Governor Fubara.

The group said: “We are particularly thankful to the governor for the successful completion of the construction of the Rumuoke Road from Okilton junction off Ada George Road to Road 9-2nd and 3rd Avenue, Road 10-2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue, and Pipeline Road up to the canal, expertly executed by Monier Construction Company (MCC).”

The landlord, however, expressed concern over the recurring flood incidents in the area, appealing to the governor to tackle the situation before it gets to a threatening state.

“Before the intervention of His Excellency, the road was in an extremely deplorable state, impassable, and prone to flash floods whenever it rained.

“Most houses and business premises were often flooded as people could hardly leave or access the area, while economic activities were completely paralysed.

“The newly constructed internal roads have completely eased traffic in the area, boosted economic activities, and improved the quality of life of residents of Rumuokania and Rumuoke communities.

“Furthermore, while we are thankful to the governor for the completion of the construction of the internal road, we wish to draw his attention to an emerging issue that poses a threat to the durability of this critical road infrastructure.

“At the terminus of the newly constructed pipeline road, the adjoining canal is severely blocked, impeding the free flow of water. The canal serves as a vital waterway, traversing several communities, including Rumuokania, Mgbraja, Ogbogoro, Egbelu, Elioparanwo, Mini-Orlu, Rumuevorlu, Rumuokwachi, Ozuoba, Iwofe, Rumuolumeni, Rumuepirikom, and Mini-kete, among other communities.

“This obstruction has caused water to move back onto the surface of the newly constructed road, leading to accelerated erosion and hazardous conditions for surrounding buildings, motorists, and pedestrians alike within Rumuokania Rumuoke communities,” they stated.

The landlords further requested the desilting of the canal to restore proper drainage and prevent water overflow onto the newly constructed internal roads and flooding within the communities.

According to them, “We also request the construction of adjoining roads to the area to provide alternative pathways and improve overall accessibility in the area.” They noted that addressing the concerns will not only safeguard the investment of the state government in road infrastructure in the area but will also mitigate flooding, enhance safety, and further elevate the living standards of residents of Rumuokania and Rumuoke communities.

The residents also pledged readiness to cooperate with Fubara’s administration in any possible way in the quest to transform the state, improve the lives of the people, and leave an enduring legacy.

“We anticipate the kind intervention of the governor while applauding his renewed vigour and commitment to recovering the lost ground since returning from the six-month emergency rule in the state.

“We also applaud the governor’s unassuming nature and peaceful approach to governance, which are largely responsible for the prevailing peace in the political landscape of the state,” they added.