As the deadline for party primaries for the 2019 general elections inches closer, a governorship hopeful in Rivers State under the All Progressives Congress, Comrade Celestine AkpoBari, has hinted of what are his priorities for the state.
AkpoBari, an internationally acclaimed human and environmental rights activist, in a brief statement on Friday, said his priorities for Rivers State are to rebuild its economy; provide for the security and general wellbeing of the people; and secure their future.
He condemned and pooh pooed states’ governors who waste public funds on television live coverage and documentaries to commission what he described as “renovated and painted buildings”. AkpoBari, who had addressed global audiences, including the General Assembly of the United Nations on environmental matters and good governance, and championed the cause for the clean-up of the Niger Delta environment, said it is “the shame of the 21st Century”.
“In this 21st century, I am ashamed to see governors inviting the who-is-who to flag-off and commission roads, renovating or painting buildings. These things shouldn't even be in the news on television or live programmes, not to talk about airing it continuously as paid documentary.”
AkpoBari, who, working with critical stakeholders and Federal authorities ensured the kick-off of the clean-up of the Ogoni environment, explained that his governorship offer is to place Rivers State as a ranking state to match current global challenges in economy, social welfare and security of life and property.
“We should be talking about building the economy; the wellbeing of the people; their security and their future! .....This is why I am offering myself to serve.”
