Some political observers have expressed dismay over a billboard reportedly erected by the Chairman of Omuma Local Government Area, Nwanosike Christian, which featured his image alongside that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but excluded Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The development has sparked criticism from residents and political observers, who described the move as a calculated slight on the state governor. They argued that as the leader of the state, Governor Fubara’s image should ordinarily appear on such a billboard, especially one mounted by a council chairman.
Critics insist that the action not only undermines the office of the governor but also fuels political tension in the state. They called on the Omuma council boss to retrace his steps and accord due respect to the governor.
Media influencer, Dagogo Achese said, “Now, if this is not outright m@dness, then it can only be explained as the effect of npurunmiri. How on earth can a Local Government Chairman boldly place the face of the President side by side with his own on a “Welcome to the Secretariat” billboard, completely sidelining the image of the Governor of Rivers State, the Chief Executive and leader of this state?
“This is not just a poor display of judgment; it is the height of insolence and a gross disrespect to the office of the Governor. Such an action undermines the authority of the Governor, ridicules the dignity of the state, and sends a dangerous message that loyalty to Rivers State can be carelessly traded for cheap political grandstanding.”
“Respect for constituted authority is non-negotiable. The Governor of Rivers State remains the symbol of leadership in this land, and no Local Government Chairman, no matter how ambitious or misguided, has the right to reduce that office to the background of his political drama. Rivers people are watching, and history will record those who chose respect and those who chose reckless insolence.“
Media practitioner, Tina Briggs, on her part said, “Imagine a state where we have a Governor and you no to put his picture on your billboard in your LGA. Things dey happening.“
As of press time, the council chairman was yet to respond to the concerns raised by stakeholders.
