Desmond Akawor, former Nigerian Ambassador to South Korea and Coordinator of Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Rivers State, has accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of stalling development in Oyigbo Local Government Area.

Akawor made the allegation on Monday during a “thank you” visit by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to the local government area. He noted that residents elected Fubara expecting the continuation of development projects initiated under Wike, but claimed that little progress has been made since 2023.

“Permit me to speak frankly. If these things are not said now, they may never be said,” Akawor said. “Development in Oyigbo has stalled. We have not moved an inch forward. The only tangible benefit Oyigbo has received is a commissioner’s slot, which I was given. Beyond that, nothing substantial has come to our people.”

Highlighting the state’s N600 billion treasury, Akawor warned that Oyigbo must not be excluded from the allocation of funds. He stressed that fairness, not favors, should guide distribution and that local stakeholders must benefit proportionately.

Akawor also praised Wike for curbing the influence of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Oyigbo, ensuring normalcy and preventing harassment of residents. “Our people are deeply grateful. You restored normalcy and entrusted me with mobilization responsibilities, and I acknowledge that confidence,” he said.