Morning Crossfire

A caller on the Morning Crossfire says it is the responsibility of the government to build houses and give them out for rent. This follows concerns by the House of Representatives over arbitrary rent increases in Nigeria.

Bright Amaewhule, President-General of GDI, has criticised the welcome reception for Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara as one-sided, following the end of a six-month emergency rule in the state.

Residents of Rivers State have expressed mixed reactions ahead of the expected return of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly, following a six-month suspension under emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu.

Flora Obele, a member of the State Executive Committee of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Rumukrushi Unit, Rivers State, has emphasised that it is standard practice for nurses to introduce themselves to patients for proper identification before carrying out any medical procedure.

Residents of Rivers have expressed mixed reactions to the recent appointments made by the state's Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas, ahead of the expected return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

A caller has proposed strategies to address the growing security concerns at Rivers State University (RSU), stressing that the perpetrators behind the recent attacks are known within the local community.

The Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Rivers State, Minaibi Dagogo-Jack, says the church will take a more decisive role ahead of the 2027 general elections to ensure righteous leadership in the country.

Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Abutu Yaro, has expressed disappointment over the current pension benefits for police officers.

The Director of Strategic Communication and Media for the Obidient Movement, Nana Kazaure, has stated that the comment made by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpehbolo, about the planned visit of the Labour Party's 2023 Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, should not be dismissed as a genuine concern for Obi's security.

Hector Ekeakita, the Chief Security Officer of Ahoada-East Local Government Area in Rivers State, has denied involvement in the attack on the sole administrator of the council, Goodluck Iheanacho.

In a bid to curb road accidents involving heavy-duty fuel tankers, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a ban on 60,000-litre tankers from operating on the nation’s roads, effective March 1, 2025.

The National President of the Association of Telecommunications Subscribers, Deolu Ogunbanjo, has criticised the recent 50% tariff increase by telecom operators, arguing that it is an unjustified burden on Nigerians.

Legal practitioner Robinson Ariyo Esq. has urged the federal government to closely supervise the operations of private security companies in the Niger Delta region, following allegations of misconduct by Tantita Security.

The factional spokesperson of the APC in Rivers State, Chibuike Ikenga, has claimed that the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike “sent gifts to all the political parties” in the state during the Yuletide.

As Nigeria steps into 2025, critical questions linger about governance and development.

Deputy General Secretary of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies, Innocent Lord-Douglas, has explained that the frequent collapse of the national grid is not the sole reason behind Nigeria’s power challenges.

With voter registration set to begin in February 2025, some callers on Nigeria Info’s MorningCrossfire have shared their thoughts about participating in the exercise.

Political affairs analyst Olalekan Ige says the invitation of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike by the Rivers State panel of inquiry over the destruction of council secretariats should not be seen as a witch hunt.

The Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Rivers State, Dr. Minaibi Dagogo-Jack, has called on religious leaders and elders to speak out against the actions of politicians amid the state's ongoing political tension.

A former member of the National Assembly, Hon. Bernard Mikko, has warned that the people of Rivers State will bear the brunt if the 2024 state budget is stalled due to the ongoing leadership dispute in the Rivers State House of Assembly.

A Nigeria Hunter and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) commandant, Nwanchukwu Adah, has shared his harrowing experience while attempting to stop an illegal oil bunkering operation in Rivers State.

Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, has attributed the 'genesis' of the political crisis in the state to a ‘conspiratorial plot.’

The Commissioner for Public Affairs and Civic Education for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Tamunotonye Profit Tobins, has addressed recent reports of a new court order that allegedly restricts the police from ensuring security for the commission during the October 5 local government election.

The Vice Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for Rivers West Senatorial District, Robinson Ewor, has accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of betraying Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara by allegedly attempting to remove the governor just three months into his tenure.

The Commissioner for Public Affairs and Civic Education at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), Tamunotonye Profit Tobins, has reaffirmed that the local government elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, will proceed as planned.

The Chairman of the Rivers/Bayelsa State Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Vincent Okuku, has denied claims that manufacturers are exploiting the country’s inflation to overprice their products.

Rivers State Chairman of the People's Democratic Party, Aaron Chukwuemeka, has reiterated his commitment to the PDP, stating that his allegiance is not to the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike or Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Labour Party Youth Leader, Prince Kennedy Ahanotu, has raised concerns about a growing issue within his party that he believes has plagued many political parties in Nigeria.

Rivers APC’s Chibuike Ikenga has provided reasons for Tony Okocha-led APC’s decision to boycott the upcoming local government elections in Rivers State.

National Deputy General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Chris Onyeka, has explained the reasons behind the union's strike threat and its ongoing issues with the Nigeria Police.

Rivers APC stakeholder, Tony Okocha, says he will not apologise after the Rivers State NBA demanded a public apology from him for comments made about justices of the state High Court.

Nigerians have given their hot takes about the scarcity and rising cost of petrol in Nigeria.

Concerns about the Port Harcourt refinery, power, and hunger topped the list for callers reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s response to the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest.

The Rivers State Director of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Young Ayo-Tamuno, has called on those planning a nationwide protest to exercise patience with the government.

Chizy Enyi Esq., President General of the Initiative for Transparent Strategy and Good Leadership, has given the Rivers State Government a seven-day ultimatum to demolish a five-story building owned by Samuel Nwanosike, the former chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area.

The Caretaker Committee Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Ambassador Chijioke Ihunwo, has rejected a police report about a factional clash at the Model Primary Health Care Centre, Eliozu, in Port Harcourt Metropolis on Wednesday.

The Caretaker Chairman Committee (CTC) Chairman of Omuma Local Government Area, Promise Reginald, has criticised the call for the arrest of CTC chairmen in the state by the Martin Amaewhule-led lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Sensi Solsuema Osaro, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Rivers State, assured residents that preparations for the forthcoming local council election are in progress.

The President General of the Orashi Youth Forum, Chiwokwa Nweze, has lamented the impact of the deplorable state of the East-West Road on local communities in the Ahoada East and West Local Government Areas of Rivers State.

The Rivers State Spokesperson for the United Community Development Committee (CDCs), Harrison Nwosu, is hopeful about a better partnership between local council chairmen and communities to improve the well-being of the people.

A retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Abutu Yaro says there is no need for presidential intervention regarding the dynamite explosion in Port Harcourt last week.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State, Alex Agwanwor, says the union uncovered a plot to stage a demonstration under the guise of a labour protest against the police. This follows the continued barricade of the 23 council secretariats by the police, which has prevented local government workers from performing their duties.

Legborsi Yamaabana, Chairman of the Rivers State Ethnic Youth Leaders Coalition, has defended the ongoing protests at various council secretariats in Rivers State, demanding that the local government chairmen whose tenure ended yesterday vacate office immediately.

The Acting Coordinator of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency,(RIWAMA) Prince Ohia, has stated waste disposal guidelines for various local governments in the state.

Chris Onyeka, the National Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has accused the federal government of deceiving workers after promising to increase the minimum wage to reflect economic realities.

President General of GDI, Bright Amaewhule, insists that the Rivers State Government is withholding the salaries of civil servants and political appointees in local governments.

The Rivers State Commissioner for Youth Development, Chisom Gbali, has disclosed that the Ministry of Youth Development recycled its budget during the previous administration of former governor Nyesom Wike.

The announcement of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) cybersecurity policy regarding electronic transactions has triggered widespread concern among Nigerians, particularly given the current economic challenges.

APC Chieftain and former Nigerian Ambassador, Oji Ngofa has criticised the reversal of the Rivers State Public Procurement law by the Rivers State House of Assembly, stating that the actions of the lawmakers purportedly in public interest, fall short of such claims.

The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB has clarified that its Unified Tertiary Matriculation Exam, UTME is not a ‘fail or pass’ examination.

The Public Relations Officer for the Eastern District of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, (NRC), Dr. Onyedikachi Stanley Onovo, has assured passengers of their safety following the commencement of Port Harcourt-Aba train operations.

The Rivers State Microfinance Agency, RIMA, is urging businesses and artisans to apply for a four-billion-naira loan provided by the state government in partnership with the Bank of Industry, BOI, aimed at boosting economic activities across the state.

Some Nigerians continue to debate the nation's readiness for a state policing system as a solution to the escalating insecurity in various parts of the country. This debate intensifies as calls for state governments to take full control of policing within their states resurface nationwide, with stakeholders divided in their opinions.

The Caretaker Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, has subtly hinted at the underlying cause of the rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

A Chieftain of the All-Progressives Congress, APC in Rivers State, Emeka Beke, asserts his position as the rightful Chairman of the party in the state. This claim emerges in light of the appointment of a state caretaker committee by the national leadership of the party.

A Nigerian Army official, Brigadier General Aminu Illiyasu, says the Nigerian Army has constitutional authority to intervene in civil matters when necessary.

Former Eleme Council Chairman, Philip Okparaji has criticized the move made by the Rivers State House of Assembly to review the state's local government laws.

Callers on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire shared their thoughts on Senate President Godswill Akpabio's response to an address given by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara during the funeral service of late Herbert Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc.

Professor, Usman Dakkar, a lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Science at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), has linked Nigeria's food crisis to the negative perception of agricultural practices in the country.

Callers on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire expressed varied opinions about their confidence in the federal government’s ability to address the current economic challenges in the country.

The spokesperson for the Rivers State Civil Society Organisation, RIVSCO Solomon Lenu, has condemned the court arrest order for the government Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, and the arrest of five individuals by the police.

Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, has expressed concern that the Rivers State House of Assembly criticised the recent appointments made by the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to his cabinet.

The Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Sydney Gbara, has appealed for peace in the party amid deepening political tension in the state between its members loyal to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

An economist, Dr. Peter Medee, says the planned relocation of some offices of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the headquarters of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to Lagos State is economically appropriate.

The spokesperson, United Community Development Committee, Harrison Nwosu provides insights into the challenges faced by the Chairmen of Community Development Committees (CDC) in promoting security and development within their communities.

A caller on Nigeria Info FM’s Morning Crossfire, has expressed a unique perspective about the exit of 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the People’s Democratic Party, PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Civil Service Union, Rivers State, Osumah Chuks, says the appointment of permanent secretaries by Governor Siminalayi Fubara came at the right time.

Concerns have been raised by residents of Rivers State about the effective working relationship between the resigned Rivers commissioners and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, given their loyalty choices.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State says it is not aware of Senator Magnus Abe's return to the party.

Spokesperson, Atiku campaign council, Leloonu Nwibubasa says claims of a crisis within the People’s Democratic Party, PDP is untrue.

Former lawmaker, Senator Magnus Abe has explained his decision to rejoin the All-Progressives Congress, APC.

The Ogoni Youth Federation has condemned the involvement of lawmakers from the Ogoni region of Rivers State in the planned impeachment of the state governor, Siminialayi Fubara.

Wanted gang leader, Gift David, popularly known as 2Baba, insists he has no involvement in the murder of Ahoada-East Divisional Police Officer, SP Bako Angbashim, he also claims to be unaware of the whereabouts of the body.

Amid the political crisis in Rivers State, Engr. Tams Ibuluya, a stakeholder in the People's Democratic Party, PDP from Okrika LGA, has called on the former governor, Nyesom Wike, to allow the current governor, Siminialayi Fubara, to concentrate on leading the people of Rivers State.

A caller on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire shares a thought-provoking perspective following considerations by the Nigerian Senate to make the upload of election results mandatory to enhance transparency and accountability in the electoral system.

Human Rights Lawyer, Henry Ekine, has raised concern about upholding the rule of law and the importance of adhering to boundaries for the establishment of an equitable society.

A Chieftain of the All-Progressives Congress, APC in Rivers State, Ezemonye Ezekiel Amadi, has maintained that belonging to one political party and serving in the government of another political party undermines party loyalty.

Elder statesman and former spokesman of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, Anabs Sara-Igbe, has accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike of being behind the impeachment notice against the sitting governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.

A lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt (UniPort), Professor Glory Amadi, has attributed the desperation for wealth by some young people in Nigeria to a decline in the societal value system.

The Rivers State Chairman of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, Francis Dimkpa, has blamed the variation in the price of petrol in Port Harcourt on what he says is an “unequal playing ground” in the petroleum industry.

With only a few days left before the expiration of a 30-day memorandum of understanding signed between the Organised Labour and the Federal Government, the Rivers State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, TUC, Foster Onyefuru says most of the agreements are yet to be implemented.

The National Coordinator, South-South Leadership Forum, Anabs Sara-Igbe has called for a restructuring of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, in the Niger Delta instead of an outright scrapping.

A member of the Rivers State local government flood committee and spokesperson for Abua/Odual local government area, ABOLGA, Dugo Pelini Obom, says measures are in place to tackle the 2023 floods, predicted by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, NIMET in the state.

President General of Ogoni Youth Federation, Legborsi Yamaabana has confirmed the commencement of construction work on the Eleme-Onne Road in the Ogoni axis of Rivers State.

The Chairman of the Urban Drivers Welfare Association in Rivers State, Lekia Isaac says the multiplicity of tricycle unions in the state is responsible for the violation of the ban on tricycle operations also known as ‘Keke’ on major roads in Port Harcourt.

Callers on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire have reacted to the federal government’s provisional salary increment for federal employees.

The Chairman, Trade Union Congress in Rivers State, Foster Onyefuru says suspending the nationwide strike was more strategic because Labour has now achieved over sixty percent of its seven demands.

It was a low-key celebration over the weekend, as Nigerians marked the nation’s 63rd Independence Day anniversary.

Actor and Comedian, Daniel Chibuzor Nwoka, popularly known as Dan D’ Humorous has urged record label owners to ensure fairness in the drafting of music contracts binding the signing of new artistes to their labels.

The Commissioner for Education, Rivers State, Professor, Chinedu Mmom says the Rivers State Government is committed to providing free education for students in the state.

As more Nigerians react to the outcome of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal judgment, the Labour Party and People’s Democratic Party, PDP decision to appeal the ruling has given a twist to the conversation.

The Rivers State Police Command says plans are on to resist any form of protest in the state following the outcome of the September 6, Presidential Election Petition judgment in Abuja.

Political Affairs Analyst, Olalekan Ige says the Nigeria healthcare sector needs a robust plan to jack up quality healthcare delivery to citizens.

The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, says it is not true the agency gave out a bag of rice each to be distributed as relief materials across communities in the Ahoada West Local Government Area.

Senior Communications Officer of Yiaga Africa, Mark Amaza, has said that the portfolios of ministers should have matched their professions and experience.

Environmentalist, Fyne Face Dumnamene has condemned recent airstrike operations by the Nigerian Air Force, NAF in parts of Rivers State.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare says the government flagrantly disobeys court judgments given in favour of the organization and the Nigerian people.

The Rivers State Chairman of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, PETROAN, Francis Dimkpa has given an understanding of the staggering state of petrol pricing in the country in what he says is now “stable”.

As many Nigerians continue to grapple with an increase in the cost of living following the removal of fuel subsidy, some who depend on the sachet and bottled water as an alternative source for potable water would have to pay more to procure one.

The Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Rivers State, Sydney Gbara has denied claims that a press statement by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed warning against anti-party activities, was targeted at the Rivers PDP or the five aggrieved governors of the party also known as the G5.

The Chairman of Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, Kalabari Se-Ikpangi, Asikatams Edward claims a private security group identified as the ‘Amama Soldiers’ and formed by former Niger Delta Agitator, Asari Dokubo was engaged by the federal government under former President, Muhammadu Buhari to ensure security in certain parts of the country.

The Ikwerre Local Government Council in Rivers State is set to unveil a mass transit system for residents in the council to ease the high cost of transportation following a new increase in the price of petrol.

Some stakeholders have criticised the planned distribution of eight-thousand naira as palliative for the removal of fuel subsidy to twelve million poor households within 6 months.

Former Spokesman and Retired Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Kebbi State Command, Joseph Attah says the fuel subsidy removal has “greatly’’ helped to reduce the smuggling of petrol in the country.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh has clarified a statement by the party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure alleging that the All Progressives Congress, APC is secretly preparing for an election rerun following a petition before the election petition tribunal challenging its victory in the 2023 Presidential election.

The National President, of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, Ambali Olatunji says NULGE’s call for a salary increase is due to unsavory economic reality in the country.

The Chairman, Financial Services Trade Group, Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, (PHCCIMA), Amb. Clement Akanibo has suggested ways President Tinubu’s administration can regulate prices in the country to benefit vulnerable Nigerians in the aftermath of the newly signed Executive Order on taxation. 

Energy consultant Kennedy Osuji has called for a reevaluation of the scheduled July 1st implementation of the proposed 40 per cent electricity tariff hike in Nigeria.

A public affairs analyst Olalekan Ige has shed light on what is expected of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the wake of the suspension of Abdulrasheed Bawa, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

A recent bill signed into law by Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu to provide students of tertiary institutions loans at interest-free rates has got Nigerians reacting.

The National President of the Association of Senior Staff of Banks Insurance and Financial Institutions, ASSBIFI, Olusoji Oluwole has reacted to the suspension of the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

President Bola Tinubu's comment during his inauguration, stating his administration's intention to discontinue subsidy for petroleum products, has left many Nigerians unsettled.

The People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Rivers State has dismissed reports of a court ruling sacking some executive members of the party.

The Rivers State Chairman, Petroleum Retailers Association of Nigeria, PETROAN, Francis Dimkpa says the hike in fuel price after President Tinubu’s subsidy removal comment is due to panic buying.

Local vigilante group, ONELGA Security Peace and Advisory Committee, OSPAC, has denied any human rights violation in a recent raid in Ogba Egbema Ndoni Local Government Area.

Some Rivers residents have shared their expectations from the incoming administration respectively as the swearing-in inauguration for President-Elect and Governors-Elects takes place across the country today, May 29th, 2023.

The Urban Drivers Welfare Association in Rivers State has reacted to the resumption of the Rivers State Task Force on Street Trading and Illegal Motor Parks.

A traditional leader from Etche Community, Chief Loveday Okere has dismissed reports of rising insecurity in Etche Local Government Area.

The Chairman, Emohua Local Government Area, Dr Chidi Lloyd says the local government is being invaded by Fulani herdsmen.

The debate about competence and politics in appointing political officers has resurfaced as Nigeria prepares for a new government come May 29.

The Rivers State Police Command has urged citizens to report any officer without name tags on their uniform.

Many Nigerians are marking #NYSC at 50, sharing throwback photos from their service year on social media to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the program.

The Director General of Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NHSA, Engineer Clement Onyeazo Nze says its delegation was not welcomed by the Rivers state government during a 2022 flood assessment visit to states in the South-South.

The Coordinator, Rivers State Pensioners Association, Lucky Ati says he is confident the incoming administration will improve the welfare of civil servants in the state.

The National Emergency Management Agency of Nigeria, NEMA, says measures are ongoing to ensure the safe evacuation of Nigerians from war-ravaged Sudan.

The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP in Rivers State, Senator Magnus Abe says the relocation of the Rivers governorship petition tribunal from Port Harcourt to Abuja will address the security concerns of opposition parties in the state.

The Nigerian government recently announced plans to increase the salaries of civil servants in the country by forty percent as a consequential allowance to reduce the impact of subsidy removal in June 2023.

Being inundated with reoccurring strikes, mostly embarked on by government agencies is a norm for many Nigerians who bear the brunt.

The Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC says any attempt by the Federal Government to increase the price of premium motor spirit, PMS as an offshoot of a planned subsidy removal will be heavily resisted.

The Deputy National Secretary of the Labour Party, Prince Kennedy Ahanotu says the internal disagreements plaguing the national leadership of the party is a sponsored attempt by opposition parties to hijack the Labour Party.

Nigerians seem to be caught in the web of a debate following a recent bill by the House of Representatives, that proposes a mandatory five years service for medical practitioners trained in Nigeria before being issued licenses to practice fully.

Economist and former Commissioner, Energy and Natural Resources in Rivers State, Peter Medee has fingered constitutional bottlenecks as a factor responsible for the fall in foreign direct investment, FDI, in Rivers State.

The Social Democratic Party, SDP, Governorship candidate in Rivers State, Senator Magnus Abe has confirmed the party is in motion to challenge the outcome of the March 18, governorship election in the state, however, Senator Abe says the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC is yet to grant him access to the documents needed to file his case at the election petition tribunal.

The All Progressives Congress, APC in Rivers State has dismissed reports that its governorship candidate, Tonye Cole was on his way to the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Rivers State to inspect election materials.

The Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Rivers state, Sydney Gbara says the infrastructural achievements of Governor Wike’s administration are enough testament to gain the party victory in the 2023 governorship election.

The outcome of the February 25, Presidential election in Nigeria, is still hotly debated one month after.

The Spokesperson of the Atiku Campaign Council in Rivers State, Leloonu Nwibubasa has denied any wrongdoing following an arrest order by the Rivers state government.

The Media and Communications Officer, YIAGA Africa, Moshood Isah says there was a significant improvement in the conduct of Saturday’s governorship and state houses of assembly elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC compared to the February 25, Presidential elections.

Former Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC in Rivers state, Beatrice Itubo has berated a recent approval by the Rivers state government to employ 10,000 youths into the civil service as well as promote civil servants in the state.

Former Rivers Labour Party Chairman, Deinye Pepple says the now dissolved state structure of the party dumped its governorship candidate, Beatrice Itubo because she lacked the capacity to emerge victorious in the forthcoming governorship elections in the state.

The People Democratic Party, PDP in Rivers State has denied allegations that its members hijacked the voting process in some polling units in the state during the just concluded 2023 Presidential election.

The People’s Democratic Party, PDP is confident the party will emerge victorious in the forthcoming 2023 presidential elections.

The National Spokesperson of the Atiku Campaign Council, Kola Ologbodiyan says the Naira redesign policy is a making of the All Progressive Congress, APC, and the Federal Government against the People’s Democratic Party, PDP.

The First Deputy National President, Association of Senior Staff of Banks Insurance and Financial Institutions, ASSBIFI, Nike Joseph, has called for the arrest and investigation of Point of Sales, POS operators who claim to have bought the new naira notes from banks.

The First Deputy National President, Association of Senior Staff of Banks Insurance and Financial Institutions, ASSBIFI, Nike Joseph has dismissed speculations that banks might embark on a strike following attacks on its facilities in some parts of the country.

Former Spokesperson of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, Anabs Sara-Igbe has expressed displeasure over the role of the Rivers state police command in dealing with recent pockets of pre-election violence across the state.

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, Rivers state chapter says the Christian body would not be supporting the same religion ticket for the sake of justice.

National President Association of Senior Staff of Banks Insurance, and Financial Institutions, Olusoji Olawole has condemned attacks on banks in some parts of the country.

The spokesperson for Atiku/Okowa Campaign Council in Rivers state, Dr Leloonu Nwibubasa has denied claims that the campaign council and the All Progressives Congress, APC in the state planned to share the same venue for a campaign rally.

The Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC in Rivers state, Beatrice Itubo has condemned the current hike in petrol pump prices in Rivers state.

An APC Chieftain and member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, Tony Okocha has accused the party’s leadership in Rivers state of not campaigning for its Presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2023 general elections.

The Deputy Director, Strategy Management Department, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Emenike Chimene Eleonu says it is illegal to reject the old naira note before its February 1st.

The People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Rivers state has denied it is responsible for recent political attacks on opposition parties in the state.

Five candidates have been selected in an online poll for the Rivers state governorship debate 2023.

The truth of the matter is that fuel may never return to 165 naira per litre except something miraculous happens, says Chairman, Petroleum Retail Outlets Association of Nigeria, PETROAN in Rivers State, Francis Dimkpa.

The Chairman, Rumuwoji Community Development Committee, CDC in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area in Rivers State, Ike Wigodo has refuted a statement by the Rivers State Police Command following a January 19, attack at the Rivers APC campaign rally in the state.

The Rivers APC Governorship Campaign Council Spokesperson, Mr Sogbeye Eli has described the current political atmosphere in Rivers state as tragic. 

The Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Public Affairs, Ajuri Ngelale says it is misinformation and falsehood to say terrorists still control parts of Northern Nigeria.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has denied claims that the commission plans to use privately owned hotels as Registration Area Centres, RACs.

The 4th of January 2023 commemorated the 30th observance of Ogoni Day, a day the Ogonis in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria set aside for the remembrance of their agitations against environmental degradation and marginalization.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, has explained why it issued a directive for candidates who have biometric challenges during the 2023 UTME registration to come to its headquarters in Abuja.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has said the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, is unbeatable.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has clarified that its officials do not stop vehicles on the road to search phones, in a bid to catch ‘Yahoo’ boys.

The Director of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, in Rivers State, Young Ayo-Tamuno, has said the 2023 elections will be different from previous general elections in the country.

The cash withdrawal policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria directing all banks and other financial institutions to limit over-the-counter and POS cash withdrawals has continued to generate reactions.

The 2022 floods that hit several states in the country have left devastating impacts on some affected communities in Rivers State. 

President Muhammadu Buhari recently indicated that governors steal from allocations of local government councils.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, has revealed that there is an average of about 9,000 to 10,000 resident doctors currently in the country.

Water Producers Association of Nigeria, WAPAN, has said the cost of production has continued to affect the price of sachet potable water in Rivers State.

The Federal Road Safety Corps Commander in Rivers State, Salisu Galadunci, has revealed that road crashes in the state have reduced. 

"Mr President is being misled by certain incompetent managers that he appointed."

The spokesperson of the Atiku campaign council, Kola Ologbondiyan, has expressed concern over recent comments of the Rivers State governor.

Environmental activist, Fyneface Dumnamene, believes adopting pipeline surveillance contracts as a means of tackling crude oil theft is not sustainable.

Security expert, Smith Dibia, has blamed the ‘era of social media’ for the seeming failure of people to connect and get to know their neighbours.

The Rivers State government has clarified that the recently signed Executive Order 22 is not a new law but a directive based on existing law in the state.

Factional President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, (MOSOP) Prince Biira, says the United Nations Environment Programme, (UNEP) recommendations for the clean-up of Ogoni are yet to commence.

President of the Ogoni Youth Federation, Legborsi Yamaabana says there would be no need for a protest on the Ogoni axis of the East-West Road.

National Union of Rivers State Students’ President, Precious Monmon, has suggested that Rivers State University enable students to pay their fees in installments instead of the ‘No school fees, no exams’ policy.

Some callers on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire with Ifiemi Andrew have shared their position on the Rivers State University’s No Fee, No Exams’ policy. For many of them, the policy is unacceptable.

Experts have suggested interventions that the federal government should implement as solutions to the flooding in the country.

An #EndSARS protest organizer in Rivers State, KO Baba, has warned erring security officials to desist from harassing youths in the state.

President of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, Olusegun Mojeed, has advised Nigerians to properly consider migrating to other countries before doing so.

A caller on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire with Ifiemi Andrew has described Governor Nyesom Wike’s appointment of 50,000 political advisers as an aberration.

Rivers State Civil Society Organisations' Spokesperson, Solomon Lenu, has said Governor Nyesom Wike's recent appointment of advisers is “politically motivated” and unrealistic.

Environmentalist, Evaristus Nicolas, has described as irresponsible, the attitude of government at all levels in Nigeria to the flood crisis in the country.

Gender development advocate, Prof. Heoma Nsirim-Worlu, has explained why it is important to have a day for the girl child. 

'I do not know why the take-home pay of somebody whose job is just to say ‘yea’ or ‘nay’ will be better than that of a teacher who takes time to research.’

A caller and a guest on the Morning Crossfire have shared divergent views about Nigeria's challenges and who should be held accountable for them.

Some e-hailing taxi drivers in Rivers State have called for some explanation from the government about a planned tax drive and plans to impound their cars from October 1, 2022.

“Why don’t they just go ahead and campaign and leave the religious leaders alone?”

The Police should not always be blamed for infractions that occur during campaigns, Former Police AIG, Felix Ogbaudu, has said.

As campaigns for the 2023 presidential elections begin, Nigerians have started sharing what they hope politicians and political parties would focus on during their campaigns.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has called on political parties to conduct their campaigns and rallies “with a certain level of civility” as campaigns for the 2023 general elections officially start on Wednesday, September 28.

Former Rivers PDP Publicity Secretary, Darlington Orji, has explained how former PDP national chairman, Uche Secondus, was ousted as the party chairman, and how the current chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, emerged.

Security analyst, Achinike Owhomka, has suggested that ahead of the 2023 elections, community leaders need to take measures that would mitigate any form of violence before, during and after the elections.

The Rivers State Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Jokiel Gideon, has posited that the federal government’s decision to drag the Academic Staff Union of Universities to court smacks of incompetence.

Socio-political commentator, Chief Emmanuel Iruayenama, is of the opinion that the political rallies taking place ahead of the 2023 elections will not translate to victory at the polls.

Political parties are setting up campaign councils but the question is where are the funds coming from?

Queues have returned to petrol stations in some parts of Rivers State. While some of the stations are closed, those open have a crowd around their pumps and long queues of vehicles trying to get petrol.

Educationist, Dr Ben Nyewusira, has decried the absence of synergy between the local and state governments in ensuring basic infrastructure at the primary school level.