Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has said that the current political crisis in the state is a deliberate attempt to hinder progress in governance and distract the government from delivering quality projects and services to Rivers people.

Governor Fubara made the remarks during an inspection of the reconstruction work at the Zonal Hospital Site in Omoku Town, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.

POLITICS NIGERIA understands that the crisis in Rivers State stems from a misunderstanding between former Governor Wike and his successor, Fubara over control of political structures in the state.

The Governor, on Monday, said: “I want you to know this afternoon of this reconfirmation of our commitment to Rivers people that, not minding the attacks, notwithstanding the boast by people who believe they don’t want this State to go forward, that they will be disappointed.

“That they want to make this State on fire so that we will be distracted from governance; we want to tell them that while we face the fire, our eyes are on the ball.

“We will ensure that this particular project is delivered on time, alongside that of Bori Zonal Hospital, by the special grace of God, before the end of this year.”

He expressed satisfaction with the progress made and commended the contractor for adhering to agreed specifications.

He said: “From what we have inspected this afternoon, it is a world-class standard of an intermediary health facility.

“We confirmed that the contractor is working according to specifications because we want this facility to have a mortuary and a laundry, which are needed for a standard hospital, and accommodation for the health workers.

“You can see for yourself that you even saw a crane also working at the site of this project.”

Governor Fubara further said: “We promise that this project, as part of what we promised our good people of Rivers State, that healthcare, education and agriculture are the prime things that we must, no matter the circumstances we find ourselves, deliver to our people.”

In addition to the hospital projects, Governor Fubara also inspected the Ikiri Section of the 33.5-kilometer Elele-Egbeda-Omoku dualized road. This project, flagged off in May to celebrate his one-year anniversary in office, will connect three local government areas – Ikwerre, Emohua, and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni – with a river crossing bridge.

He stated: “This project cuts across three local governments – Ikwerre, Emohua and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Areas. It is a 33.5-kilometer road with a river crossing bridge that will connect the three local government areas.

“We came here, as you are seeing. I think the contractor is doing a very good job, notwithstanding the flood situation that they are battling. I strongly believe that it will be delivered as promised by the contractor.

“I need to say this so that you also understand the challenges that we are facing: This is a raining season, and we are also having flood situation, but that notwithstanding, the contractor is doing a good job. You can see it yourself.”