Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has said that votes from the state, in the 2023 general election, will be put where a concrete reward is guaranteed for such electoral support.
The governor noted with dismay that since 1999, no state had given votes to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, more than Rivers State, but such support had never been rewarded because there was no visible benefits in terms of federal government projects.
Governor Wike made the observation at the formal inauguration of the Etche Campus of the Rivers State University in Abara community of Etche local government area on Tuesday.
The governor also flag-off the construction of Ultra-modern two storey building of two and three bedrooms staff quarters within the campus premises.
Enough of such support, Governor Wike declared.
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He said the state could not settle for the crumbs, but would courageously negotiate for what was befitting to its status.
“At the appropriate time, we will take decision on what to do. This is because since 1999, I want Rivers people to reflect on this, ponder over it. We brought the highest votes to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“I challenge any state to say they brought more votes for the PDP. I challenge any state to say that. Which state has given more support than Rivers State? Is there anyone? Since 1999, show me one federal project in Rivers State. Is there anyone? So, if you want our votes, then tell me what you will give Rivers people. Our votes are not for dash anymore.”
The governor recalled that while some of his colleagues during the 2019 general elections negotiated and gave their votes to President Muhammadu Buhari, Rivers State alone resisted by giving all its votes to PDP.
Such persons, Governor Wike noted were now talking as if they loved the PDP more.
The governor revealed that some of his close associates had expressed concern about his safety, but he had told them not to be bother because God was on his side.
Governor Wike also clarified his comments on why he said he was willing to deal with those who wanted to challenge his electoral capacity.
The governor said God had given him power, and resources as a governor to do what was appropriately good for Rivers people and would not leave what he would do for God to do.
Wike commended the Rivers State University for not joining the protracted industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, because there was no basis for it.
Commenting on the project, Wike said it was another fulfillment of the promise made to Etche people, which he said would definitely drive development in the area.
He assured that the staff quarters that had been flagged-off would be completed in the next six months.
