Richmond C. Amadi is an independent journalist, Book Publisher, member of RSU Alumni, Researcher (currently researching with Researchgate.net), Writer, Motivational Speaker. He is a BSc Holder in Office and Information Management, and Diploma holder in Management all from Rivers State University. Currently doing his MSc with RSU. Contact him on Richmond.amadi@ust.edu.ng or Amadirichmondc@gmail.com All Social Platforms: @amadirichmondc
“It is most unfortunate that fickle minded persons will claim that a Mosque was demolished at this place, when no Mosque existed here. The story was concocted by mischief makers to score cheap points”.
Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers smState has refuted claim by the Muslim Community that he demolished their mosque in Port-Harcourt.
In a statement presented through his Special Assistant on Electronic Media, Simeon Nwakaudu on Monday described the claim by the Muslim leaders as unfortunate.
The governor said the false information was planted by mischief makers to create disaffection in the state.
He disputed the rumour while addressing journalists at the location on Biambo Street Off, School Road by Mami Market Junction, near Rainbow Estate on Monday 26 2019, noting that there was no physical mosque on ground and nothing was demolished.
In his words: “I received calls from several prominent Nigerians on the fake news being circulated online. I have come here with Reporters and you can see there was no Mosque here.
“It is most unfortunate that fickle minded persons will claim that a Mosque was demolished at this place, when no Mosque existed here. The story was concocted by mischief makers to score cheap points”.
Addressing the impression reported by Daily Trust, Wike stressed those with no land approval illegally erected a foundation at the disputed land.
“They came here to erect illegal structure. There was no approval from the State Government for any structure to be erected here.
“The persons who started the foundation had already dragged the State Government to court on the disputed land. The Rivers State Government won the case. What they attempted to do was to start the illegal construction to tie the hands of the State Government “, he said.
He challenged the Muslim Community in Rivers State to point to show him where a Mosque was demolished in the State, advised them not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to peddle false stories against the state.
Wike further noted that the State Government operates within the rule of law and will not be distracted by the illegal circulation of fake reports.
He stated that several Mosques constructed on the approval of the State Government exist across Port Harcourt and other major towns of Rivers State, without the State Government demolishing them.
“The government gave them notice not to do anything on the land. But they went ahead with the illegal foundation and the relevant agency stopped them.
“Why would want to bring down any Mosque , when there are other Mosques across the State? What is the Special interest on this one?
