Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, to address incidents of army officers attacking contractors engaged in road construction within the state.
During a courtesy visit by Lieutenant General Lagbaja to the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara expressed concerns about the behavior of certain military officers associated with a specific company in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area. These officers have reportedly been hindering road construction efforts in the area.
Governor Fubara recounted attempts to resolve the issue, citing vested interests among the officers as a hindrance to resolution. He implored the Chief of Army Staff to intervene and caution the officers involved.
Furthermore, Governor Fubara highlighted the state’s efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering, a significant problem exacerbated by the involvement of the military and major oil companies. He suggested that certain officers may have compromised their roles in parts of Ahoada East and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Areas.
Lieutenant General Lagbaja, in response, commended the governor for his ongoing support and cooperation with the army, which has contributed to peace and stability in the state. He emphasized the importance of the army’s role in securing the oil industry and achieving economic recovery and security.
Additionally, Lieutenant General Lagbaja issued a warning to army personnel against colluding with economic saboteurs involved in oil theft, kidnapping, and other criminal activities, underscoring the government’s focus on economic recovery, security, and infrastructural development.
During his visit to the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Lieutenant General Lagbaja inaugurated several projects and emphasized the need for troops to remain committed to their responsibilities. He recognized the division’s efforts in combating oil theft and urged them to maintain their dedication to this important task.
The Anti-Bunkering Unit of the 6 Division was acknowledged for its significant success in curbing oil theft, leading to improved crude oil output.
Separately, Governor Fubara pledged ongoing support for sports development in the state as a means to engage and guide young people away from criminal activities. He made this commitment while receiving the Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club, winners of the Louis Edem International Basketball competition, at the Government House in Port Harcourt. Governor Fubara encouraged the players to maintain discipline and hard work to justify the support they receive and demonstrate their excellence to the world.