THE PRESSURE AND DILEMMA OF THE PRINCE WHO WANTS POLITICAL POWER – THE CASE STUDY OF PRINCE TONYE PRINCEWILL -By- Eze Chukwuemeka Eze,

mediaconsultanttpcorivers07261@gmail.com,ezemediaconcept09@newriversstate.com, 08038199163



Born a prince of the renowned Amachree dynasty in the Kalabari kingdom with its century-long history of bravery in war and gift of oral narration, trained as an aristocrat par excellence and bestowed with an uncommon wisdom from God, this Prince hardly needs an introduction in any political gathering in Nigeria. Though it was beyond him to be born a prince, it is however in line with his character, remaining atop his life’s endeavour, through sheer hard work. The prince is calm, focused, intelligent, insightful and of humble personality.



Many have argued that his sudden rise in political status in Nigeria is the product of boardroom skills. Those who have found nothing extra-ordinary in Tonye’s brand of politics and its potency to disarm even the most vocal critical sector attribute it to the father. The age-long wise saying that if a child washes well his hands, he dines with kings and queens has no true-life application as far as this group is concerned.



An accomplished academic, an orator and a patriot, a charismatic politician, an outstanding philanthropist, a voice for the voiceless, a study in humility, a great manager of human resources, a fearless warrior and unassuming humanist, foresighted and a believer in a united, stronger and viable Rivers state. To me, that is even a punishable attempt to describe Tonye. But what would I have done if not test myself on how much or little I may have attained in the Herculean task of seeing the wholeness of the Prince. Though these few years have given me a closer study of this new breed, yet I am still far away from beating the chest that I have been successful. In all modesty, I have never been a dull student but since an enigma evolves outside any scientific index, it would end in an ant’s hole to nurse an attempt to beat time and hoist an “hurray”!



Confounding people with his brand of politics mixed with activism, he treads the political landscape of the state like a colossus. Given to the mastery and apt use of choice words to create relief against social pains, Princewill succeeds at first attempts to persuade others to believe his views. His speech competence and depth march that of great orators found anywhere man exists. Great speakers like that have often, in History, found their way to the pinnacle of political empires.



Tonye carries himself not like an aristocrat which undoubtedly nature thrust on him. He goes with the humility of the servant to the people which he prefers to sitting in an exquisitely furnished palace, robed in the costliest princely apparel. That nonetheless shows him in disdain to neither the Crown nor a prodigal to the ancient stool on which only warriors, descendants of the great Amachree, would sit on. This humility, a gift incontrovertible, forms his answers any time any praise falls at his feet.



In the last three years, this blue-blood of Kalabari descent has gradually muzzled his way into prominence in the highly volatile political terrain of Rivers state. Always business-like, every time was productive to be wasted. That was not lost on the Rivers state government as appointments followed one after another. Today as the youngest member of the Rivers State Economic Advisory Committee, he is part of the team that counsels the state on priority and fiscal prudence. He was appointed Investment Consultant to the Rivers State Government in December 2007 and has so far been able to attract over Fifty Billion Naira (N50bn) worth of investments to the state through the Public Private Partnership Initiative of the state government.



Today, he is the foster father of organised political opposition in Rivers state with 43 political parties as consensus leader of its coalition. It is worthy to note that two separate but defining moments heralded his adoption as the consensus leader and It is to Prince Tonye Princewill’s credit as leader, that the AC had two slots on the immediate past State Executive Council with Bar. Osimah Ginah, Commissioner for Ministry of Urban Development and Chief Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, Commissioner for Special Duties getting the nominations to fill them. Barr Ginah has since been reappointed into the newly reconstituted cabinet.



This believer in an immediate paradigm shift, where good men who had hitherto shunned politics because of the general belief of its being a “dirty game” would now begin to embrace politics to gradually become the majority that would put into effect the sought after change who through his antecedents, has become a brand name in the emancipation and struggle of the people of Niger Delta and a voice for his people that his opinion and views on any national discourse and issue is always highly sought and respected.

The Prince did the impossible in the Nigerian politics when against all odds he resigned a Federal Government appointment that would have catapulted him into both NDDC MD and other lucrative offices when he resigned his Chairmanship of Vision 2020 Sub Committee on Niger Delta. According to him, “It wasn’t courage but was something of eh; I was angry by government reaction and pulling of the Niger Delta Technical Committee – Vision 2020 committee as a chairman. It was a first step; it was the least I could do. I am not going to be sitting down and formulating policies on Niger Delta, and proffering solutions to the same people who are causing the problem. It does seemed to be ridiculous, if someone call you into his house and said, please I want you to advise me on sanitation and you go and spend time and energy and do a,b,c,d,e and start to proffer the way forward, and meanwhile, you are watching this person that you are going to propose to, as you are talking they are dumping things. It is clear they are not there to come and listen. To me it is even nothing, to even wonder about. It is obvious moves that you don’t order or go on with that person. Unfortunately, some persons, because the client is the federal government believe that they should not tell them truth or should not confront them with the reality. I of course on the other hand, by my antecedence, my happiness is to be opposing what is not working and my willingness to put everything on the line as at when necessary, will tell you that you should not be surprise that by my very self will not allow silence in the midst of that kind of thing. I am glad that we did it as a very first step. We also said that apart from it been a first step, if they did not stop, we will take it further and I am glad that less than ten days after that, we went from bombing Gbaramatu to amnesty which was almost systematic in its nature. Why do you offer amnesty and then bomb? Sorry just after bombing, you have already offer amnesty. Is there any remote sense in it? But amnesty was the right way to go, bombing was eh wrong way to go. I am glad that they turned at the corner and pulled back from the creeks”.

It becomes obvious that Franklin .D. Roosevelt, a former president of the United States of America, an orator and philosopher of great acclaim, had the likes of Tonye Princewill in mind when he wrote: "The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have little." Holding tenaciously to this eternal verity, TP as he is called by admirers, believes that a leader should be a public servant, who strives relentlessly to put smiles on the faces of his followers without placing undue emphasis on their social status or dashing the hopes of the poor masses. As one with leadership acumen, Princewill never subscribes to leadership stratum as an end. Rather, he views it to be a means to an end, the end being the socio-economic and political emancipation of the people. According to Einstein the great Philosopher may have the Prince in mind when he stated, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile”



All the above qualities and revolutionary steps the Prince of Niger Delta has taken is not the main discourse of this treatise but the pressure his type of politics have brought on him lately that may improve or mar his political future. Today, his associates are divided on whether he should abandon the AC that brought him fame and national recognition or follow his political mentor, Atiku Abubakar who stood by him when all the odds was against him when he decided to drop his gubernatorial Tribunal case against Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi the Governor of Rivers State when on 26th of October, 2007 the Supreme Court confirmed Amaechi as the Governor of Rivers State back to PDP. The facts remains that in 2006, out of the blues TP came and wrestled the leadership of the party in Rivers State from seasoned and feared politicians that set up the party in the State particularly Sgt Awuse whose name alone can send you to political oblivion if you are not a lion-hearted fellow like the Prince and whose structure Prince Tonye Princewill used to defeat him in AC Primaries to determine who flies the flag of the party in the 2007 gubernatorial election. He contested the 2007 gubernatorial election under the platform of AC and actually won the election against the awesome PDP if the votes of the people were to be counted. A party through which this enigma of a politician used to sponsor and fund the Rivers state Chapter from 2006 till date and assisted other Chapters of the party that were in deep-neck in crises. On 4th May, 2008 Rivers state AC was at Bayelsa, sponsored by this new block in Nigeria politics, to offer assistance for the rerun governorship election. He was at Adamawa, Edo, Ekiti and Anamabra States to assist AC Chapters in those States to prosecute its elections programs. Chief Dr Bisi Akande the National Chairman of AC during the last NEC meeting of the party held at Benin singled out Rivers State Chapter of AC led by Prince Tonye Princewill as the only Chapter in the Federation up to date in its financial obligation to the party and the only Chapter that offer helps to other Chapter of the party.



But all these romances and feats of the Prince with this great party (AC) may be a history if the unfolding events in the political evolution of the country are anything to go by. This started when the Prince was appointed as one of the three members on the Steering committee of NDM from the South-south a platform he used in the mobilization of diverse demographic groups and stakeholders for the purpose of sensitizing, recruiting, regrouping and organizing them in line with the National Democratic Movement’s vision of forming a Mega Movement but when the concept failed he joined Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) to achieve the impossible convincing Alh. Atiku Abubakar the erstwhile National Leader of AC to rejoin PDP when he was one of the signatories of thirteen that sent a letter to the Acting President of Nigeria, Dr. Jonathan Goodluck and copied to the National Chairman of PDP, Prince Vincent Ogbulafor informing the duo of the desire of Atiku Abubakar rejoining PDP a party he was one of the co-founders



Today, the Prince is confounded on what political step to take – to stay put in AC and forget his political mentor, Atiku Abubakar or join another opposition political party or rejoin PDP or even resign from politics entirely – that is the dilemma before this Prince who wants to become a political leader instead of the traditional leadership whose nature has bestowed on him by birth.



Let me critically examine some of these pressure and where it is coming from- The Rivers State Action Congress Exco led by Hon. Suage Alex Badey, it’s entire Women’s wing led by Dr. (Mrs.)Edith Wele, a majority of its Youth leaders across the state led by Hon. Norisia Pepple, Elders, several state party Chairmen and their excos, serving Commissioners, disabled groups, previous candidates and a variety of other stakeholders including Christian and Muslim religious groups and other ethnic bodies have in their various resolutions urged Prince Tonye T.J.T Princewill to without further delay rejoin PDP and help bring their vision for the State to pass under the leadership of the Rt Hon Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi.

The Rivers State Action Congress Care-Taker-Committee (CTC) led by Hon. Suage Alex Badey in conjunction with six other members of the Committee has in a resolution signed by each of them urged the Leader of the State Chapter, Prince Tonye Princewill to join the PDP as a step to move the State forward. According to the resolution passed after their 31st March, 2010 meeting stated that after much deliberations on issues affecting the Chapter after the exit of the National Leader of the party, Alh Atiku Abubakar, Action Congress will be reduced to a regional party which will not be capable of protecting the interest of the people of Rivers State and the Niger Delta Zone urges Prince Tonye Princewill to lead the party into PDP enmasse.

The stakeholders led by Dr. Ibiamu Ikanya the Hon. Commissioner of Special Duties and Barr Osima Ginah in their own resolution stated, “We the political Associates of Prince Tonye T.J.T. Princewill in the Rivers State politics after extensive discussion on the current political realignment in the country, the future of opposition political parties, the collapse of the National Democratic Movement (NDM) and the state of affairs in Rivers State and having critically appraised the character, nature and content of the current political dynamics in Nigeria, we hereby resolves as follows: 1. That the decision of National Leader of AC, Alh. Atiku Abubakar decision to return to PDP a party he actually participated in forming is a welcome development. 2. That our Leader, Leader of RS AC and Forum of Organized Opposition Political Parties in Rivers State, Prince Tonye Princewill should rejoin the PDP. 3. That our stand is based on extensive consultations with members of our constituencies, among ourselves and in the general interest of our dear State as we will do everything humanly possible to support this great idea”. Other members of the Stakeholders Forum of the Princewill Political Associates are Alh. Musa Saidu, Chairman of the Rivers State AREWA and Hausa Community In Rivers State, Bishop (Dr) Boma Lawson of West African Mission, Dr. Mrs Edith Wele, the RS AC Women Leader, the LG Chairmen of the party, members of the RS AC CTC, Chief Gani Topba, Bishop Mike Ifijeh of Covenant Faith Assembly, Bishop Prince F.E. Gideon of Word Alive Xtian Centre and Bishop Felix Ezebuwo of Open Door International Church, Rev. dr Abiye Princewill, Rev. Dr. Ugoh Amaechi, Rev. Dr. Ugoh Lawrence and Rev. Dr. Fyne Amadi among others

In the same vein, the Youths leaders of the party in the 23 Local Government Areas of the State under the State Youth Leader, Mr. Norisia Pepple after their meeting of 2nd April, 2010 resolved and stated “After being disappointed with the failure of NDM/AC Merger and considering the quality of leadership of Tonye Princewill we the Youths of Rivers State urges and pleads with the Leader, Prince Tonye Princewilll to join PDP as we are ready to follow him as AC may not be a good platform to actualize our dream for the Rivers State people”. Other stratum of the party including the women Group, Elders and stakeholders have in their various resolutions urged Prince Tonye Princewill to join PDP being the only credible platform through which we can make bring our vision for the State to pass.

In another development, about 23 Churches coordinated by Rev. Dr. Ugo Amaechi and Bishop Boma Lawson reasoned that the Prince instead of quitting politics as being threatened should join PDP so as to deepen our democracy and brighten the future of Rivers State/Niger Delta. We offer this advice taking into consideration our belief in the difference the Prince has brought into our politics urging him to heed to our sound counsel.

In a letter by the Physically Challenged Persons Association in Rivers State signed by Saturday Dobie stated that they have indentified the Prince as a potential Leader in the State and support the call on him to join PDP in order to bring to pass the wish of God to the State.

The Northern Forum South-South Zone comprising of the Arewa Consultative Forum, South-South has joined its voice to that of various groups and associations urging Prince Tonye Princewill the Rivers State AC Leader to leave the AC and rejoin the PDP. They made this known in an appeal letter to the Prince dated 19th April, 2010 and signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Alh. Musa Saidu, its Secretary, Alh. Zubairu and Chairman of the Elders Council, Mallam Ayuba Mohammad in which they stated that his proven style of leadership and his marked interest of championing the interest of the people to realize the common dream and vision for Rivers State would be put to great use in the PDP.



The Water Front Solidarity Movement (WSM) through its Leadership comprising Mr. G.O. Deresima (Chairman), Karibo D. F. (Secretary), Mr Benson Joseph (PRO), Prince O. Princewill (Coordinator) in a letter dated 19th April, 2010 (copy attached) expressed its solidarity to the leadership of Princewill. They stated that in the light of political realignments in the Nation and the State that they would support any decision reached by Princewill regarding his political future.

This latest development comes hot on the heels of a marathon three week intense consultation process that the Prince undertook to intimate his supporters on developments in the national politics and its implications on Rivers state. You may recall that Atiku’s recent announcement of his return to PDP was greeted with overwhelming support from his associates of which the Prince is reputed to be a South South pillar. The Prince in conjunction with others from around the country followed the verbal endorsement with a written letter to the Acting President and the PDP National Party Chairman.

Supporters of the Prince had stated that Atiku’s leaving had left a huge hole in AC and would leave Rivers AC exposed to undemocratic elements eager to hijack the party for selfish gains. Where before they were willing to fight that battle to prevent instability of governance in the state, now they no longer felt that threat was anywhere near as potent especially since they now had bigger fish to fry in the battle to save not just the state or the region but the entire country. AC they felt could no longer provide him the democratic national outlook he was seeking. His options therefore where to either resign from politics or rejoin his former party the PDP and do his best for Nigeria from there. En masse and except for a few dissenting voices they opted for the latter. In spite of this feedback received on the road, the Prince at every juncture had asked his supporters to put their views on record and in writing.

The Prince while thanking them for their willingness to follow him in whatever decision he made pleaded with his supporters to exercise patience so that the consultation would be comprehensive. He explained that not only politicians and friends would be consulted but other stakeholder groups as well like eminent personalities, opinion leaders, the media and my family. He described the decision as the toughest in his short but eventful political career and prayed for God to grant him the wisdom to carry his people along. He called on all his people inside and outside of AC that found his style of politics acceptable to be rest assured that whatever decision reached will not mean a change in objective or ideals, just a change in approach. He pleaded with all to avoid acrimony since as brothers we were free to pursue the path most suitable to achieving our objectives. If you want to keep getting what you are getting keep doing what you are doing. Different results do not come from the same process. Unless the process is changed the results will remain the same. This is what he has taught us and there is no doubt he appreciates this as well.



The fact is that I don’t envy the Prince under this situation as whatever step he takes will either improve or mar all that he has achieved politically in his short romance with politics.

 

My Mission to NDM - Princewill
Walter Duru Leader of the Action Congress and member of the Steering committee from the South-south, in the National Democratic Movement, NDM, prince Tonye Princewill has described his mission to the NDM as to save the Country from collapse.

Princewill who stated this while addressing newsmen in Port Harcourt last weekend express his readiness to put in his best to save the Country from the shackles of bad leadership. "I have set in motion the berthing of a Movement that is bound to change the entire political climate of not only Rivers State, but hopefully, the entire South-South Region.

Recently, I have been tirelessly involved in the mobilization of diverse demographic groups and stakeholders for the purpose of sensitizing, recruiting, regrouping and organizing them in line with the National Democratic Movement's vision of forming a Mega Movement to save Nigeria from the throes of hardship and the threat of collapse occasioned by inept PDP leadership", he stated. According to him, the various meetings were a direct response to the mandate given to members of the Steering Committee to sensitize, mobilize, and enlighten their state constituency on the vision and guiding principles of the NDM.

He also stated that their mission was also to feel the pulse of the different groups by gauging their responses and cataloguing same, which would then be presented for deliberations at the next NDM steering committee meeting scheduled to hold in Abuja the Nation's Capital soon. He stated that three options were presented during their last meeting on what the mega party structure would look like.

He said that considering the late timing in the formation of a new political party that will challenge PDP at the polls and the failure of alliances in the past, the Movement has decided to adopt AC as the consensus platform come the 2011 general elections. "To this end, the AC will be totally restructured to accommodate new members from across political divides.

This would involve the dissolution of all its structures at every level from ward to local government to state and national to give every new entrant a sense of belonging", he explained.

In the course of the sensitization drive he met first with Barrister Osima Ginah, Hon. Commissioner for Urban Development, his counterpart in the Special Duties Ministry, Dr. Ibiamu Ikanya, (the two opposition Commissioners in the Unity Government of Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi), also with Chief Williams Igweh , Deputy Leader of Rivers State AC and Special Adviser to Gov. Amaechi on Inter-Party Matters and his state party Chairman Mr Alexander Suage Badey.

Niger Delta Standard investigations revealed that the groups he met with gave their blessings to the new initiative of the NDM and pledged their willingness to fall behind the AC leader in support of whatever the NDM will metamorphose into. They also promised to ensure that the Movement takes a firm root within the region.

In appreciation to all the Groups, Prince Tonye Princewill thanked them for the confidence reposed in him and assured them that he will continue to do his best to make sure all interests are represented in the scheme of things by ensuring that their views and feelings are captured in the plan of actions of NDM.

The highlights of the meeting was the observance of a minute silence before and after each of the meetings as a mark of respect for the victims of the recent Jos massacre. In another development, leader of the Rivers state chapter of the Action Congress, Prince Tonye Princewill has concluded plans to institute a two billion naira legal suite against a Port Harcourt based local newspaper, National Network over what he described as a deliberate attempt to malign him.

Media consultant to the AC leader, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, who disclosed this during a telephone Interview with our correspondent over the weekend explained that the decision became necessary following the refusal of the paper to retract what he described as a false and malicious publication against the AC leader.

According to him, other steps to be taken include petitioning the Nigerian Press Council, among others. It would be recalled that the local tabloid, in a banner headline story on one of its recent editions, alleged that the AC leader was arrested in a Hotel in Port Harcourt over an allegation of fraud raised by one of Princewill's Bankers, a report the Bank defused by officially writing, absolving him of every form of indebtedness
 

MY VISION OF A GREAT NEW RIVERS STATE  A PAPER PRESENTED BY PRINCE TONYE PRINCEWILL AT THE STRATEGIC  RETREAT FOR RIVERS STATE AC LEADERSHIP HELD IN LAGOS ON 12TH  14TH FEBRUARY, 2010  A.   MY VISION - read

PRINCE TONYE PRINCEWILL, RIVERS AC LEADER ACQUIRES ADDED POLITICAL INSIGHT AS HE CONCLUDES THREE DAY WHIRL WIND VISIT TO YOLA, ADAMAWA STATE.
From the 18th to 20th march, 2010, Prince Tonye Princewill, the Rivers State AC Leader was in Yola, the Capital of Adamawa State. His three day  visit packed with events would no doubt remain indelible in his memory. He  was in Yola primarily on a condolence visit to the National Leader of AC,  Alh. Atiku Abubakar, the Turaki Adamawa and the people of the State over  the sad demise of Dr. Aliyu Mustafa the Lamido of Adamawa State. Prince  Tonye Princewill the scion of the Kalabari Kingdom's visit to  ola also  coincided with the epochal turban ceremony of the new Lamido Adamawa, Dr.  Barkindo Aliyu ustafa an event he witnessed in the company of other  dignitaries that included Gov Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State, his Deputy,  Mr Bala Ngillaro and members of the Adamawa State Executive Council. Also  in attendance where the former Vice President Alh. Atiku Abubakar, former  Governor of the defunct Gongola State, Alh Bamanga Tukur; former Governor  of Katsina State; Alh Lawan Kaita; NDLEA Boss, Alh. Ahmed Giade; political  chieftains like Hassan Adamu, Murtala Aminu, Koiranga Jada, Mahmud Wazari,  Gambo Jimeta, Adamu Waziri and a host others  In a private exchange with the new Lamido Adamawa, Dr Aliyu Mustafa,  Prince Tonye Princewill -who was introduced to the Lamido by Alh. Atiku-  conveyed the condolences of the Party faithful in Rivers State in his  capacity as political leader and also condolences on behalf of the  Kalabari kingdom as scion of the reigning monarch HM Prof. T.J.T  Princewill, Amayanabo of Kalabari. In a short statement, he prayed that  Allah grant the late Lamido Dr. Aliyu Mustafa eternal rest, whilst  granting members of the family, well wishers and the people of Adamawa the  fortitude to bear the loss. He urged the new Lamido to follow the  footsteps of the late Lamido who was a man of peace in his life time. He  said the late Lamido was known for his religious tolerance, embracing  Christians the same way he did Muslims and most importantly was a  patriotic Nigerian Leader whose love for Southerners could not be  overemphasized.
 His Royal Highness, Dr. Barkindo Mustafa the newly turbaned Lamido Adamawa
 thanked the Prince for finding time to visit and promised that the  Prince's visit will cement further the relationship between the North and  the Southern part of the country. He enthused that "With prayer and God's  support and blessing, I will do my best to live up to the peaceful virtues  of my father the late Lamido".
 Later in the day, Prince Tonye visited the Turaki Adamawa, Alh. Atiku  Abubakar in his Yola residence, where he formally delivered the condolence  message from the Rivers State Chapter of the AC. He said he knew the  demise was especially hard on the Turaki because of the camaraderie that  existed between him and the late Lamido, a relationship that over time by  its very nature earned him the office of Turakin Adamawa- which literary  translation is "being in charge of the House Hold matters"-, a title which  hitherto had been the preserve of the closest son of a reigning Lamido.
 He prayed that God will strengthen Alh Atiku to bear the irreparable loss.  Alh. Atiku Abubakar in his response thanked the Prince for his kind  gesture. He said that the death was especially devastating because it had  left a big vacuum in his heart. He recalled that he had considered the  Late Lamido as his adoptive father following the early demise of his own  birth father, whom he never knew. He ecalled how the late Lamido stood by  him during his trying times. He however said that he is consoled that in  his place his brother and school mate, Dr Barkindo Musdafa had become the
 new Lamido. I am happy for it. Tonye, you are a lucky man, you are today  participating in a historical event - the demise of the longest serving  Monarch in Nigeria having reigned as the Lamido of Adamawa for 57 years  the longest in the history of the Emirate and you are also witnessing the  turbanning of a new Lamido Adamawa in the person of Dr. Barkindo Musdafa  and I am convinced that all these happenings for you means a lot for the  future of Nigeria".   On the final day of his visit, the Prince embarked on a guided tour of  some of the Industries in Yola that included the Faro Company, producers  of Faro Water and soft drinks, the American University in Yola, Gotel  Radio House. At the end of the tour, he applauded Atiku's entrepreneurial  prowess, stating that "If other elites can establish such industries that touches the lives of ordinary man, Nigeria will be transformed. Nigeria  needs transformational leaders who understand this message. Politics is  too important to be left in the hands of career politicians.   He concluded by expressing his delight at the insights he had gained in  the course of the three days. Praying that it would serve to shape his  views about the Nation.  A closed door meeting was held later in the evening with Atiku and other  political associates.  The Prince returned to his Port Harcourt base on the 22nd of March.
 Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze
 Rivers State AC Publicity Secretary

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT (NDM) HAS MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE– PRINCE TONYE PRINCEWILL

The multifaceted problems confronting Nigeria indeed Nigerians currently will soon be a thing of the past if the recent steps taken by NDM are anything to go by. Prince Tonye Princewill a member of the Steering Committee of the National Democratic Movement and the Rivers State AC Leader stated this at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja after their recent marathon meeting which ended in Abuja. According to him NDM has not only decided what political platform to adopt but the guiding principles it will need to apply to stand out not only from PDP but from all other parties in recent times including AC. For one, NDM has decided to ensure that the rule of law and internal democratic ideas guides all its operations in determining the fate and the type of Leaders to govern the country come 2011.

The Rivers state leader gave kudos to the former Head of State General Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President, Alh. Atiku Abubakar and the former Sokoto state Governor Alh Bafaruwa the current Leader of DPP for coming up with the idea of the National Democratic Initiative (NDI) by tracing how it expanded to become the National Democratic Movement when Nigerians from other sections of the country joined in. With the eventual resolve of the Mega Summit Movement led by Chief Olu Falae, the acceptance by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu to bring his weight behind it and the entry of the Edo state heavyweight Chief Tom Ikimi fresh from his recent hat trick of victories over Anenih's PDP it is clear that the beginnings of a new opposition has arisen.

Prince Tonye Princewill who revealed that many progressive elements inside the PDP as presently constituted tired of the mess and embarrassment the party has constituted itself are already on their way, as will many other new politicians if and only if they can see that what is on offer is not business as usual. As it may not be wise forming a new political party, the Movement may take over AC with the expectation that the AC Leadership will be restructured in such a way to accommodate and provide a level playing ground for other members from participating political parties as well as new entrants into politics. The Prince refusing to be drawn on the detail before he briefs his people is to assemble various stakeholders over the course of the next fortnight and in advance of the next steering committee meeting scheduled to hold in Abuja.

To us in Rivers State the new Movement has already reached an advanced level with the formation of the Forum of Organized Opposition Political Parties (FOOPP) that comprises about 46 political parties under the leadership of Prince Tonye Princewill. The Leader has set in motion all the necessary parameters for the unification of the opposition. People should not mistake his love for Amaechi as a love for the PDP and shouldn't mistake his love for his state as something he will negotiate. In 2011 we will see the end of carry go politics and the beginning of people's votes representing change. Those who want to be Senators, House of Reps members, Assembly members, Commissioners and Councilors will have the opportunity to realize their dreams yet still keep their conscience. His strategy will be made quite clear. Votes will count - no going to tribunals the Leader concluded as he pleaded that though he has a lot to say on the plans and evolution of the NDM to salvage the country .
 

PDP members warming to join NDM–Princewill
By Ibanga Isine, Port Harcourt, Published: Tuesday, 2 Mar 2010

Indications emerged on Monday that some top members of the Peoples Democratic Party might be warming up to join the National Democratic Movement.
A leader of the Action Congress in Rivers State and a chieftain of the NDM, Prince Tonye Princewill, made this disclosure in Port Harcourt .
Princewill, who is a member of the movement‘s steering committee, said a lot of top politicians in the country have already embraced the NDM.
He noted that the movement has not only become a vibrant political platform but has adopted enduring principles that would set it apart from existing political parties.

Princewill said in 2011, the NDM would to a greater extent, play a critical role during the electoral process that would usher in new leaders for the country.

He commended the former Head of State, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd); former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; former Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Atahiru Bafarawa and others, for their leadership roles in the movement.

Besides, he said the Mega Summit Movement, led by Chief Olu Falae, a former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu and Action Congress chieftain, Chief tom Ikimi, have joined the NDM.


With the consolidation in the membership of the group, he said Nigeria would soon witness the birth of a vibrant opposition movement.

He said, ”Many progressive elements within the PDP are tired of the mess and embarrassment the party has constituted itself. They have already indicated their interest in the NDM.
”A lot of politicians who do not appreciate what has been going on in the country have also shown interest in the joining the movement to stop the PDP‘s reign of corruption.
”Since it may not be wise to form a new political party, it is likely that the NDM will adopt the AC structures to launch itself into Nigeria ‘s political space. When that happens, the AC leadership will be restructured to create a level playing field for others.”

In Rivers State , Princewill said the 46 political parties under the auspices of the Forum of Organised Opposition Political Parties would naturally be used to launch the movement.

Under FOOPP, he said politicians from diverse political backgrounds and interests have come together to challenge the dominance of the ruling PDP in the state.

He noted that under such arrangement the people who intend to contest elections into various positions would do so without mortgaging their conscience to political godfathers.

PRESS RELEASE
PMAN; RIVERS STATE AC YOUTH CONDEMN DEFAMATORY PUBLICATION ON PRINCE TONYE
PRINCEWILL EVEN AS UBA CLEARS & ABSOLVES HIM OF ANY INDEBTEDNESS
Following the ever rising profile of Prince Tonye Princewill the Rivers State AC Leader, political opponents have intensified their dastardly plot aimed at bringing him to disrepute before the public and also undermine
his integrity as opposition political leader in the government of Rt. Hon.Chibuike Amaechi. With the recent attempt being the libelous publication by a Port Harcourt based Newspaper, The National Network. The motive
behind the plot by these puny politicians have been seen by the many admirers of the Prince as an attempt to send him scuttling out of the political arena.
Following the sad publication, several groups have since reacted to the news eager for clarification on the events that were reported by the newspaper. The latest being the Leadership of Performing Musicians,Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Rivers State Chapter, led by its Chairman Mr. Arthur Pepple Jnr who paid the Prince of the Niger Delta Politics a solidarity visit in his residence in Port Harcourt on Thursday, 4th March, 2010 to condemn the news of the purported arrest and detention of the Prince by the Police by the said Newspaper.
In his speech during the visit Mr Pepple condemned the National Network and decried their form of journalism that now employed "pull down" tactics to smear the reputation of a man who has committed himself to seeing the
society evolve for the better. Excerpts from his speech stated thus, "..to say the publication in the National Network of February 24 - March,2, 2010 titled 'N.5M Scam, Prince Tonye Princewill Arrested in PH' was a rude
shock, will be an understatement. The report was malicious, slanderous, libelous, and defamatory in its entirety and is the crudest and most banal form of yellow journalism.
Mr Pepple used the opportunity of the visit to once again extend the association's appreciation to Prince Tonye Princewill who has continued to be a Patron of the Entertainment Industry both locally and nationally. He
recalled how Princewill facilitated the first and second Premiere of Nollywood features in Port Harcourt Nnenda and Figurine and his assistance and encouragement to various artists at different times. He pledged the
association's continued support to the Prince and prayed that the defamatory publication would in no way douse the fiery disposition that Princewill is known for. Accompanying him on the visit were Allaiyi T.D.Queue, (Director of Publicity); Ramson Douglas, (Acting Secretary); Daniel Wilson (Chairman Board of Trustees) among other Leaders. In a similar development the Rivers State AC Youth Leaders comprising its Chairman, Mr Norisia Pepple, State Exco and the 23 Youth Leaders from the Local Government Areas assured the Rivers State AC leader of its unalloyed support. They stated thus through their spokesperson and Chairman "..No matter the recent campaign of calumny against the leader, we are encouraged by his doggedness, charismatic, amiable and principled leadership qualities as he continues to map a worthy course for the opposition in the state". They used the opportunity of the visit to commend Barrister Osima Ginah the Commissioner of Urban Development in the Rivers State Government who through his trail blazing antics has proven that dividends of democracy can be provided by the opposition if given the opportunity. Not left out from the outpouring of encomiums was the amiable Governor of the state, Rt. Hon Chibuike Amaechi, who was praised for his tolerance and
belief in the opposition. The youths also called on the governor to urge the Local Government Councils to include the opposition to strengthen grassroots administration. In his response during both visits, Prince Tonye Princewill stated that though embarrassed by the report in the Newspaper about his purported arrest, he was further shocked by the details of the story of his "arrest" supposedly in an undisclosed hotel in Port Harcourt by the Police working on a tipoff based on a petition written by UBA in respect of an unserviced loan. He expressed his disappointment that the publisher of the paper Mr. Jerry Needam a personal friend did not seek to investigate such spurious reports before publication, even after been told by his Media Consultant Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze to visit the UBA Hospital Branch for clarification. He observed that it was sad that a simple phone call to his
number would have sufficed, especially as he was attending an NDM Steering Committee meeting in Abuja during the period of his purported "arrest" and has since travelled and come back from an European trip wondering how the paper got the false report that his International passport was seized by the security agents based on non existing petition from the UBA. The Prince reiterated that he is a law abiding citizen who does his best to conduct his politics and business in the most honourable and principled manner. He stated that much as he had been reluctant to take a tough stance because of his relationship with the publisher and the Press in
general, the incessant reactions from various quarters has left him with no alternative than to seek redress in this instance if the paper fails to correct the erroneous publication. My Lawyer, Barr Obayee-Ekine has written the Management and given them one week to apologize and inform the public the truth about their publication or ready to defend their falsehood in a law court. In a related development the UBA Hospital Road Branch operators of the personal and Company Accounts of Prince Tonye Princewill has in a show of solidarity issued an official letter dated 2nd March 2010 absolving the Prince and his company, River Drill Nigeria Ltd of any indebtedness to the bank thereby proven that the alleged petition from the UBA against him was spurious and unfounded just to tarnish the image of an innocent politician.

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze
Rivers State AC Publicity Secretary.

PRESS RELEASE
REAPPOINTMENT OF DR DAVIES IBIAMU IKANYA FOOPP CHAIRMAN INTO THE RIVERS STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL – A FURTHER STUDY IN POLITICAL UNITY
With the reappointment of Dr Davies Ibiamu Ikanya into the Rivers State EXCO, today 7th October, 2009 will remain in the annals of Rivers political history as a day Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi truly consolidated his position as a trail blazer in political reengineering in Nigeria.

Dr Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, immediate past Commissioner of Special Duties on the cabinet up until its dissolution this past June, is also the Chairman of the FOOPP; a coalition of over 46 opposition political parties in the state. We see his reappointment to the Rivers State Exco as a further indication of Governor Amaechi’s intentions to propagate a truly unity government even as he remains committed to rebuilding the state in the company of seasoned technocrats irrespective of party affiliations. It is now evident that the Governor’s promise at the 7th July 2009 Courtesy visit/formal presentation of the FOOPP at the Government House in Port Harcourt, when in response to a call by the body, he agreed to reappoint Ikanya to his cabinet, was not a mere political spin but the statement of a man of integrity who honours his word.

Not a few had expressed doubts as to the follow through on the widely publicised promise of reappointment. But today twelve weeks down the line, this pledge has not only been honoured but in addition, the choice of the strategic portfolio –with its attendant challenges-, buttresses the fact of Amaechi’s confidence in the opposition to deliver on a sector that has been a bane to his administration.

Reacting to Ibiamu’s reappointment and swearing in, Prince Tonye Princewill Leader of the Forum and BOT Chairman congratulated Chief Ibiamu, urging him to prove his mettle yet again in the strategic office to which he had been placed as helmsman. He expressed his gratitude to the Governor for the honour bestowed upon Ibiamu and his obvious confidence in the ability of the opposition to deliver. He enthused thus “with Ibiamu’s reappointment, Amaechi has proven yet again that my respect for him is not a decision I regret. He is without doubt a Leader we all can trust and in my opinion what he needs most is our prayers as he persists in the onerous task of leading the state”. Prince Tonye also applauded the governor for his well informed choice of Ms Ibim Seminitari a seasoned journalist and Communications expert as Commissioner for Information.

Shortly after the being sworn in, Dr Ikanya on his part offered profound thanks to the Almighty God and expressed gratitude to Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi for the appointment and also reiterated his support of the ideals the governor represents hence informing his decision to embrace his inclusion in the cabinet. He assured all of his readiness to collaborate with partners in government and stakeholders to ensure the necessary dividends during his tenure.

Barrister Osima Ginah, Urban Development Commissioner and also opposition candidate in the Cabinet currently on assignment in Europe, in a telephone conversation following receipt of the news, congratulated Dr Ibiamu and expressed gratitude to the Governor for this great gesture that gives the opposition yet another strong voice in the EXCO.

Mr Garshon Benson the Secretary General of FOOPP and Rivers State Chairman of DPP who accompanied Dr Ikanya to the Govt House Executive Council chambers for the epoch making event stated that today is one of the greatest days in my life. “This is a new dawn for genuine democracy in Rivers State aimed at the emancipation of our people. Today, we can proudly state that we are sons and daughters of Rivers State without any inhibition. Today, a new chapter is introduced in the annals of our democratic evolution as a State where people can now practise their political beliefs without any form of molestation or intimidation all to our today’s embodiment of democratic tenants - Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi,”
 

KEY NOTE ADDRESS BY PRINCE TONYE PRINCEWILL THE LEADER OF FORUM OF ORGANISED OPPOSITION POLITICAL PARTIES (FOOPP) IN RIVERS STATE DURING THE OCCASION OF THE INUGURATION OF ITS STATE EXCO ON 26TH JUNE, 2009 AT PORT HARCOURT
 

PROTOCOL

I am honoured to present this keynote address at this inaugural swearing in of the EXCO of the Forum of Organised Political Parties (FOPP) in Rivers State. Today the 26th of June 2009, we formally make public, the consolidation of an idea first berthed on the 27th October, 2007, when eight political parties (AC, RPN, ADC, CPP, UNDP, ARP, UNPP and ANPP) decided to withdraw their hostilities to PDP and support the Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi led administration. That decision has gradually evolved into what is hailed today as a study in political pragmatism, clearly setting Rivers State apart as a trail blazer in political innovation within this nation’s polity.

Although some of us encountered dire challenges and stiff sanctions from our National Leaders and party stakeholders at the time, the resultant stability and progress recorded by this administration so far, has made the pain of the aforementioned challenges nothing compared to the gains of our beloved state. Today we have stood the test of time and it appears our tomorrow will be even better than our today.

I am overwhelmed as I recall, that from the initial eight political parties that took that bold step back in 2007, today we have in our fold 43 accepting to come together under one umbrella to support our cause and vision for the State. This unified body is here today because we chose not to look down on any political party as insignificant or less than relevant, decided that to reach the grassroots better we needed to expand rather than contract and agreed that opposition was not about AC vs PDP but about right versus wrong, differing opinions and a voice for the voiceless.

As we inaugurate its State Exco today it would not be out of place for me to throw light on two separate but defining moments that heralded today’s event. The first took place on the 8th of April 2009, when Chairmen of 18 political parties under the auspices of Forum of Opposition political Parties in Rivers State convened a press conference in Port Harcourt announcing through the Forum Leader, Chief Harry Alaye, its decision to adopt me as its Consensus Leader. According to him, the decision to merge with the initial seven political parties under my purview was a well thought out idea, which he believed, would form a formidable alliance capable of moving the state forward. A fortnight later on the 23rd of April 2009, the Organised Opposition Political Parties (OOPP) in Rivers State also addressed a Press Conference toeing the line of FOPP in adopting me as its Leader.

When I was informed of the unanimous decision appointing me to lead this elitist group, I knew at once the enormity of the attendant responsibilities of such a great task and found myself in a state of reflection wondering if indeed “I was ready to lead the transformation of this new political marriage?” The answer to this question is what I hope to demonstrate as I forge ahead one step at a time with this formidable team made up of tried and tested political strategists, the likes of whom we swear in today.

It has indeed been a process marked by extensive, far reaching and wide consultations not just within the state but also outside of it. The legality of the exercise, its practicality, the implications of what we are doing here today and its benefits to the state have been placed under a number of legal, political and strategic microscopes culminating in a resounding thrust to go forward. The initial formation of a 10 man harmonisation Committee led by the DPP Chairman Garshon Benson and a 6 man constitution drafting committee led by Barr Iyke Echie from Emohua under the supervision of Hon Barr Osima Ginah though critical were only tips of the iceberg. At the last count there have been over 62 formal meetings, only 9 of which involved me and many many more informal chats to get us here. From Yola to Lagos and Abuja this journey began and ended here but its path knew no bounds.

Anyone who knows the antecedents of the political playing field in Rivers State will be greatly encouraged by what is happening here today. By the very nature of today’s event, hope is being restored to many weary hearts throughout the state, that live in perpetual despair at the seemingly endless cycle of political violence, litigation - a legacy of past leaders. Today we craft a new sense of purpose in a direction which will hopefully lead Rivers State to the point where personal agenda and political differences can be put on the backburner in the interest of the state.

Today we unburden ourselves of the legacy of the sordid political past.

Today we launch into the future with renewed hope to secure a better future for us and for the next generation.

Today we launch a call to service and a movement away from money politics.

Today I reiterate that it is not about His Excellency, neither is it about my humble self. It is rather a collective consensus that we must begin to do things differently for the good of Rivers State, that we will change the course of our destiny. The time old saying - “If you want to keep getting what you are getting, keep doing what you are doing.” comes to mind. We want different results so we must act differently.



Our motto ‘Unity in Strength’ is the premise that drives this consensus. For the avoidance of doubt, I crave your indulgence as I quickly run through some of our objectives:



(1) To support and strengthen the Unity government in Rivers State.

(2) To foster unity and progress amongst member political parties for the betterment of the good people of Rivers state. (3) To criticize the government of the day constructively as and when necessary.

(4) To support democratic principles and encourage electoral bodies to organize true and proper elections that will reflect the true wishes of the electorate.

(5) To protect member political parties before, during and after elections.

(6) To support Government to encourage active participation of Rivers State indigenes in strategic sectors of the State Economy.

I take this opportunity to commend and congratulate Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi who has demonstrated that he is indeed a rare gift to our State. The fact remains that without him what we have done to organize the opposition in the State would not have been possible. As Leader of this Forum, I wish to defer to Rt. Hon. Amaechi as the father of this Forum. His rare tolerance has served to create the conducive and enabling environment for opposition politics to thrive. By engaging us he has engaged many more Rivers people.



This Forum does not change the fact that I remain a major critic of this administration. We will continue to criticize the administration as the need arises and support the government where necessary. I thank all that have made this historical event possible and want to reserve my thanks especially to the Almighty God who has seen us through thus far, May all glory and Honour go to Him.


Long live Nigeria ,

Long live Rivers State ,

Long Live FOOPP.

Thank you and God bless us all
 

Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s Dissolution Of Cabinet A Commendable Move- Rivers Ac

The decision by Governor Amaechi to unceremoniously dissolve his cabinet on 5th June, 2009, though a welcome development was long overdue. We have by April, 2009 advised that he dissolve his Cabinet considering that most of the Commissioners were just marking time without keying in into the vision of the Governor and his alley, Prince Tonye Princewill the Rivers AC Leader and the rallying point of opposition political parties in Rivers State. We do commend and congratulate him for the worthy and bold step that we believe form a part of his strategic plan to move the state forward.

 Considering that the past Cabinet was hurriedly constituted to jump start the state machinery on his assumption of the office of Governor in 2007, it is a widely held opinion, that with his in depth knowledge of the terrain in the course of close to two years at the helms of affairs, he should be in no hurry to constitute a new cabinet. We opine that he should take time to put up a Cabinet that will not only stand the test of time but will concretise our collective vision to take the State out of the doldrums’ of the visionless leadership of his predecessors. 

We of the AC, acknowledge Amaechi’s magnanimity in embracing the opposition as well as demonstrating a focused and determined leadership style required at this time to position Rivers as one of the leading States in Nigeria. As we identify with his vision for the State, we take this opportunity  as he commences a new phase of his administration to assure him of our determination to avail him of the much needed support he needs to succeed in his bid to lead the State to “Eldorado’’. 

We must doff our hats to our erstwhile Ambassadors in the dissolved Cabinet (Barrister Osima Ginah, the immediate past Commissioner for Urban Development and his counterpart in the Special Duties, Dr. Ibiamu Davies) for leading the pack among the outstanding Commissioners in the Cabinet. For the great inputs and efforts, they made to the affairs of government during their tenure; we strongly hope they would be amongst the list of eight commissioners earmarked for recall when a new cabinet is constituted.  

Based on their commendable performance we anticipate that three additional slots in the cabinet be filled by members of the opposition, in the light of the new vibrancy injected into the opposition with the constitution of a consensus body of no less than 45 political parties working together with the incumbent Governor to move the state forward. The Leader of the opposition in Rivers State, Prince Tonye Princewill is expected within the week to submit the list of the five nominees to include the old and new Commissioner from the opposition to Gov. Amaechi.

We would like to inform lobbyists that the constitution of the new Cabinet will take a long time, as there is no particular hurry to constitute a makeshift Cabinet not minding that he may be tempted to reappoint the eight outstanding Commissioners into offices within the week pending the constitution of the larger cabinet in order not slow down governance in the State. We also appeal to all and sundry by way of this Release, to give the Governor some breathing space with regards to selecting the most suitable candidates for the job at hand.

Finally, we thank God for the restoration of life back to our senior National Football Team, the Super Eagles due to the dynamism of our super Governor, Rt. Hon. Amaechi as the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force expected to qualify the Team to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. With the transformation that has taken place in the Team since the coming on board of the Amaechi’s led Task Force Nigerians can come to appreciate that we have the best performing Governor in Nigeria from Rivers State. With the results gotten from Northern Ireland, France and Kenya outings the hope of qualifying the Team to play in the world cup is rekindled. This notwithstanding, we will like to reiterate that the Technical Team should live up to expectation by fortifying the Team and avoid the lacklustre attitude and the not marking of opponents tactics exhibited during the match against the Kenyan Team when we confronts the Tunisian National Team in two weeks time. We are very convinced that Amaechi will bring his winning magic wand to qualify our Team to South Africa all things being equal.

Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze,

Rivers State Action Congress, Publicity Secretary

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Niger Delta Watch Network (NdWN) Commend Gov Amaechi For The  Re-Appointment Of Barr Osima Ginah Into The State Exco

The Leadership of the Niger Delta Watch Network, comprising of its  President, Secretary General and Representatives from each of the States within Niger Delta on 9th June, 2009 paid a visit to Barrister
Osima Ginah the erstwhile Commissioner of Urban Development of Rivers State at his Port Harcourt residence to congratulate him on his reappointment   as member of the State Executive council. Excerpts of the congratulatory message at the occasion  read by its Secretary General, Gogo Ada-Rufus, went thus; “..as a body set up for the purpose of proper monitoring and assessment of the performances of
Public Office Holders within the South-South region, we want to formally commend Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi , Executive Governor of Rivers State for the decisive and wise decision in his
reappointment of  Ginah. Barr. Ginah’s reappointment is an acknowledgement and revalidation of his antecedents in administration,love and total commitment towards Rivers State. His reappointment
though a welcome development did not come to us as a surprise, as our past assessment of Public Office Holders in the region has always placed him in the forefront, way ahead of his counterparts, as being
one of the most consistent articulate and proactive Public office holders in the region.

We are proud of his past conduct considering the responsibilities that accompanied the huge task of urban renewal and redevelopment he was faced with. The record of how he in so short a time, turned Port
Harcourt, once regarded, as a garbage city into a civilised and beautiful city is something worth celebrating. We respect his dynamism and all-embracing leadership and by his reappointment into the new Cabinet of Rivers State and ultimately whatever Ministry he may be assigned to, we hope that he will surpass his record as one of the foremost performing Commissioners in the South-South Geo-political
Zone in recent times”.

Highlights of the visit to Ginah included a presentation of a distinguished award of Excellence plaque to him in recognition of his resilience and consistency in the face of all the risks he encountered
in the course of his stint as Commissioner. The Exco of Niger Delta Watch Network that attended the event were Chief Okoya Warri from Bayelsa State (President), Gogo Ada-Rufus from Rivers State (Secretary
General), Kunegba Agbahule from Edo Stae (PRO), Pst. Emmanuel Akpan Bobson (Akwa-Ibom), Abraham F. Iboro (Delta State), Morris Ankuri (Bayelsa State), Bonnie Williams (CRS) among others.

A humbled and delighted Barr Osima Ginah was visibly moved by this gesture and expressed shock over this honour accorded him. He stated that though he had been the recipient of numerous awards in recent
times, this honour by the Niger Delta Watch Network,(Distinguished Award of Excellence), was close to his heart since it was an open validation by opinion leaders in the region. He also thanked a number
of News organisations in Port Harcourt who “.. In their polls ranked him as their outstanding Commissioner in the last Cabinet...”- They include TopNews, HardTruth, Weekly Star, Independent Monitor, Reformer, Beam and Niger Delta Standard.
Ginah reiterated his readiness to be part of a team that would restore  the state to its enviable position in the Nation’s polity. He also thanked the AC Leader in Rivers State Prince Tonye Princewill who he
referred to as “my Leader and brother”, as well all the Rivers State AC Leaders for the confidence reposed in him by their  decision  to recommend him to serve in this administration. The fact remains
without the support and assistance of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi the visionary Governor of Rivers State who approves my candidature to serve in his Cabinet and gave me all the necessary backing and
support, I may not have achieved anything in the last Cabinet, I Pray and hope that the same cooperation given to me by both the Governor and my colleagues in the Cabinet will be extended to me this time
around so that collectively we will take Rivers State to the promise land.”

Hon. Badey Suage, the Rivers State AC Chairman who was in attendance at the occasion in his own remarks, thanked the Niger Delta Watch Network for singling out an AC representative in the Cabinet for this unique honour. To the Rivers AC, Barr. Osima Ginah has been a dynamic Ambassador of the Party in the Unity Government of Amaechi with his antecedents in the last cabinet, We are therefore hopeful that additional slots will be filled by deserving nominees from the AC after the reappointment of Dr. Ibiamu Davies if achievement and commitment are some of the parameters for reconstituting the new cabinet.
It should be noted that Barr Ginah has in the past few months has received the following awards - Int’l Ambassador for Peace by Peace Ambassadors, an interreligious & Inter-ethics World Peace Organisation, Fellow Certified Institute Of Certified Institute of Management, Nigeria Award  by Certified Institute of Nigeria, Nigerian Democratic Pillars Merit Award, Sublime Achiever Award by Spynet Communications, Int’l Role Model Leadership Gold Award, Diamond Merit Award for Patriotic Africans, Meritorous Diamond Award for National Development,  Africa Leader of Integrity Merit Award by Trailblazers Magazine, Ambassador of Development by National Union of Ogoni Students Worldwide; Developmental Achievers Award by Times International before this particular one that excites him so much by Niger Delta Watch Network, (Distinguished Award of Excellence)

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