By Joel Anekwe
Professionals in Rivers State under the aegis of Rivers Professionals for Wike (RIVPROW) have endorsed Rivers State governor, Chief Nyesom Wike for a second term.
The Rivers professionals on Wednesday announced their endorsement during their solidarity visit to the governor at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
Leader of RIVPROW, Mr Enemi Alabo George said that professionals in the state were satisfied with the performance of Governor Wike, hence their decision to support his re-election.
He said: “As professionals, we subscribe to your vision. We are willing to work for the success of the New Rivers Vision.
“You were elected by Rivers people and you have proved to be a good governor. Professionals have resolved that they want to be part of the process and to add value.”
He added that the professionals are ever ready to make their contributions to ensure that Wike continues to succeed in the state.
George stated that the policies of the governor have led to the growth of the economy of the state and the emergence of growing small and medium sized businesses.
Responding, Governor Wike charged professionals to be directly involved in politics in order to shape the direction of the society.
He said it is unwise for professionals to allow hooligans to hijack the governance structure, noting that the society will suffer for professionals staying away from politics.
“Professionals cannot give their destiny to those who don’t know anything. Professionals must show interest in politics to churn out quality policies.
“Don’t be afraid. You have the tools to make contributions for the development of the society. Don’t hand over Nigeria to hooligans “, he said.
The governor challenged Rivers people who are well-to-do to contribute their quota to the growth of the state. He wondered why some politicians continue to fight the administration instead of attracting development to the state.
“When I talk about Rivers people, I mean indigenes of Rivers State, people born in Rivers State and people who live and do business in Rivers State.
“If they allow the ports to work, jobs will be created in the state. If the airport is working, more jobs will also be created”, he said.
He berated the APC-led Federal Government for failing the country, noting that the administration only intimidates Nigerians with insecurity.
He assured Rivers Professionals that his administration will work with them by creating more employment opportunities for them. He said that the state government will, in the coming weeks, employ 7000 professionals into the state civil service and 14000 teachers into the state education sector.
Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of the communique endorsing Governor Wike by an official of RIVPROW, Golden Tamuno. The group also presented a condolence letter through the secretary, Prince Nyekwere.