TVC N. Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike has donated eight gunboats to the Nigerian Navy in the oil-rich state’s effort to boost the security on its waterways. The gunboats were commissioned by Chief of Defence Staff General Abayomi Olonishakin.
A statement by Simeon Nwakaudu, a special assistant to the Governor on electronic media said the donations were made on Friday, April 28 and was done to protect lives of people in the state.
It read: “In furtherance of the state’s investment in the security of lives on her waterways, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike on Friday donated eight security Gunboats to the Nigerian Navy. “Governor Wike also announced the further acquisition of 13 Special Boats to be distributed to the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Police for enhanced maritime security.
“The security gunboats donated to the the Nigerian Navy are fitted with special security features, 200 horse power engine, 12.7mm guns, automatic grenade launchers and communication facilities to navigate Rivers Waterways and creeks. The gunboats have about 200 horsepower and have guns and grenade launchers “Launching the security gunboats at the Federal Lighter Terminal, Onne, Governor Wike said that his administration remains committed to the promotion of security of lives and property across the state.”
The statement also quoted the governor as saying: “These boats are for the security of lives and property in Rivers State. They should not be taken to the neighboring states on any account. Any state that wants to secure her waterways should purchase her own gunboats. Wike addressing the audience at the launching of the gunboats “The truth is that security is paramount. There is no governance without security. That is why this administration is investing in security. We are doing everything humanly possible to support the security agencies to carry out their responsibilities”.
The governor directed the Nigerian Navy to ensure that they stop sea-pirates from operating in the State. Governor Wike however warned the Navy against using the gunboats for the rigging of elections. The governor assured that he will always promote the unity of the country through such acts as the donation. The development follows the alleged insincerity of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration in resolving the crisis in the Niger Delta.
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