Nyesom Wike, the governor of Rivers State, has described the mass defections of members of the Nigerian Senate as an indication that democracy was taking shape in the country.
Governor Wike who spoke on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 during the celebration of 40 years of legal practice of Onueze Okocha, a senior advocate of Nigeria, by Okpo Club of Nigeria, an association of Ikwerre lawyers worldwide, and the inaugural Okpo Club awards, said that the defections from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has shown the direction the country is headed in 2019.
“Democracy is taking shape in Nigeria. I hope you are aware that the PDP has taken over the Senate. We are like going to take over at the House of Representatives,” Governor Wike is quoted as saying.
Governor Wike urged Nigerians must continue to work towards a development-oriented government next year.
On the celebration of Okocha, Governor Wike said that he deserved the honour of the people noting that “This is 40 years of successful law practice. I commend Chief OCJ Okocha for mentoring young lawyers to be worthy legal practitioners”.
Moses Wifa, a senior advocate of Nigeria, also said that Okocha deserved the honour because he is a bridge between old and young lawyers.
A former governor of the state, Celestine Omehia, said the celebrant was a living icon, who has contributed to the development of the state.
In his remarks, Okocha said he would remain committed to the promotion of access to justice and the rule of law.
He assured that he would continue to join other lawyers and members of the bench to enhance the Independence of the judiciary.
The celebrant stated that he would always serve as an inspiration to others to join the legal profession.
Highlights at the event was the launching of a book, ‘Opening and Enriching the channels of Justice in the Nigerian Society’, honour to Governor Wike with the Dr. Obi Wali Prize for leadership, by the Okpo Club of Nigeria among others.
In attendance at the event were the former state governor, Dr Peter Odili, Okocha and comedian, Julius Agwu, seasoned legal practitioners, politicians, traditional rulers and top government officials.
