PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria – In an unprecedented move, Governor Nyesom Wike unveiled a 220-person committee on Saturday, April 29, 2023, entrusted with the crucial task of supervising the inauguration of the incoming administration of Siminialayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, slated for 29 May.
This committee, the largest of its kind among the states, was announced at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
Tammy Danagogo, the secretary to the Rivers State Government, will chair this monumental committee, with Dr. A J Beredugo serving as Secretary.
Governor Wike explained the inclusive nature of the committee, stating, “This is not a party affair. It is a Rivers State affair. So, the committee is made up of all shades of opinion.”
He added that members were selected from diverse backgrounds, including various political affiliations, civil societies, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and representatives of other groups.
The governor emphasized that this committee primarily oversees the swearing in of the incoming administration.
“Inauguration committee is just to prepare the swearing in of the governor and deputy governor-elect. It is not because you are a member of the inauguration committee therefore, it is automatic that you must serve in the cabinet,” he clarified.
Wike also urged committee members to focus on the honour of service rather than monetary benefits.
“I have found out something and I have always told people, when you have the opportunity to serve, it is not an opportunity that money must come out at every given time,” he cautioned.
In addition to the inauguration ceremony, the committee will also be responsible for identifying projects to either flag off or commission, organizing public lectures, and arranging a grand dinner on the 29 May.
In a related development, Governor Wike dissolved the 2023 Campaign Council of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, following the elections.
He thanked the director-general of the council, Felix Obuah, and the team members for their concerted efforts, which he said led to a “98 percent electoral victory in the 2023 general election.”
