The Chairperson of the Labour Party in Rivers State, Hilda Dokubo, has asserted that the state cannot operate effectively with fractured leadership. She criticized what she sees as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s ongoing influence over Rivers’ political matters, despite his departure from the governorship.
Speaking at a Town Hall Meeting in Rivers State that was streamed by News Central TV, Dokubo pointed out the growing tensions in the state’s political environment. “There was a moment when we felt the pressure from the statements made by individuals within the state,” Dokubo remarked. “The former governor would make comments, and those aligned with him would follow suit. Those supporting the governor also express their views. The comments consistently revolve around who possesses authority over the state, who governs it, and who is truly in control.”
Dokubo categorically dismissed the idea of dual leadership. “It’s impossible to have a governor while simultaneously having another person overseeing the state,” she emphasized. “There has to be one leader, and if we have all agreed that the governor is that person, then the governor must lead.”
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In related remarks, the Labour Party chairperson expressed her concern that decisive leadership has been lacking, replaced instead by intimidation. “This has not been present; instead, we have been confronted with threats everywhere. Threats regarding who can act against whom, and who should undertake certain actions against others,” she noted. “Such threats are detrimental to progress, to friendship, and to the development of the state and its resources.”
Reflecting on the past, Dokubo drew comparisons to previous leadership situations. “During Governor Peter Odili’s tenure, there came a time when, after four years, the focus shifted to presidential aspirations, with considerable resources funneled into the political party, neglecting our own needs across the state,” she recounted.
She suggested that this issue has persisted. “The same pattern repeated itself with the former governor, now minister; he is also misusing our resources,” Dokubo alleged.
Regarding the current administration headed by the Sole Administrator, she voiced concerns over fiscal accountability. “If the rumors we hear are accurate, then the current leader is again misusing our funds, as we are unaware of where our finances are going. There has been no significant development in this state for over two months,” she remarked.
She finished by underscoring the democratic values that are at risk.
