Promoters of Good Governance Urge Tony Okocha to Mind His Business and Focus on APC's Failures
Introduction
The Promoters of Good Governance have issued a strong rebuke to Dr. Tony Okocha, Acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, urging him to cease his unwarranted commentary on Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration. Okocha, who is not a member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), has no standing to interfere in the internal matters of the PDP, and his recent statements are seen as attempts to mislead the public. The group has asked him to redirect his attention to the numerous challenges facing his own party, the APC, instead of attacking a government that is focused on delivering results for the people of Rivers State.
Okocha's False Allegations of Political Witch Hunt
Tony Okocha’s claims that Governor Fubara’s establishment of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry is merely a political witch hunt are baseless and misleading. The Commission was set up to investigate serious incidents of arson and violence targeting local government offices, acts which demand thorough investigation and accountability. Contrary to Okocha’s insinuations, the Governor's intent is to seek justice and restore law and order, not to settle political scores. Okocha's attempts to undermine this legitimate process only reveal his desperation to detract from the positive work being done by the Fubara administration.
Purpose of the Commission of Inquiry
The Promoters of Good Governance have emphasized that Governor Fubara’s decision to inaugurate a seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry, led by Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, is a lawful and necessary response to the serious violence that occurred in Rivers State. This commission’s one-month mandate reflects the urgency with which the Governor wants to address the situation and ensure justice for the victims. Okocha’s suggestion that the Governor already knows the perpetrators is simply a distraction from the real issue—ensuring accountability for the acts of arson that have endangered lives and public property.
Okocha’s Calls for Broader Probes: A Red Herring
Okocha’s demand for the commission to investigate all past incidents of arson in Rivers State, including events that occurred years ago, is nothing more than an attempt to shift focus away from the current investigation. His insistence on including unrelated cases, such as the bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the APC state headquarters, is a deliberate attempt to derail the commission's work. The current investigation is specific to the October 2024 incidents, and Okocha’s attempts to broaden the scope only highlight his intent to obstruct justice.
Criticism of Governor Fubara’s Leadership Unfounded
Okocha’s criticisms of Governor Fubara’s leadership lack substance and are clearly politically motivated. His claims that the Governor ignored a court judgment regarding local government elections are misleading. The Fubara administration has consistently shown respect for the rule of law and has acted in the best interests of Rivers State residents. Okocha’s allegations of illegitimacy surrounding the local government elections are an extension of his ongoing efforts to create division and instability in the state, without offering any constructive solutions.
Internal Struggles Within APC, Not PDP
It is important to clarify that the political challenges facing Rivers State do not stem from internal conflicts within the PDP, as Okocha falsely suggests. Governor Fubara enjoys widespread support within his party and among the people of Rivers State. The real crisis lies within the APC, a party that has struggled to present a coherent opposition or deliver meaningful governance. Okocha's statements about internal PDP conflicts are merely an attempt to deflect attention from the failure of his own party to provide a viable alternative for the state.
APC's Deterioration and Lack of Leadership
Rather than attacking Governor Fubara, Okocha should focus on addressing the numerous failures within his own party, the APC. After nearly two years of internal strife and poor governance, the APC has failed to deliver for the people of Rivers State. Okocha’s so-called optimism for the 2027 elections is misplaced, as the APC’s inability to unite and present credible leadership has left the party in disarray. The Promoters of Good Governance urge Okocha to concentrate on rebuilding his own party instead of criticizing a governor who has consistently prioritized the welfare of Rivers State residents.
President Tinubu’s Intervention Misrepresented
Okocha’s portrayal of President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in Rivers State is also misleading. While the President may have offered counsel to promote peace, the insinuation that Governor Fubara reneged on his promises is inaccurate. Governor Fubara remains committed to promoting peace, law, and good governance in Rivers State, and any claims to the contrary are politically motivated fabrications.
Conclusion
Dr. Tony Okocha has no legitimate authority to comment on the affairs of the PDP or to critique Governor Fubara’s leadership. His recent statements are nothing more than a distraction from the APC’s own failings. The Promoters of Good Governance warn Okocha to mind his own business and leave the governance of Rivers State to those who are committed to progress and development. It is time for Okocha and the APC to focus on their internal issues and stop interfering in the affairs of a government that is delivering real results for the people of Rivers State.
Edison Ibianga
October 18, 2024
Coordinator, Promoters of Good Governance
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