Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), has criticized Senator Seriake Dickson over his Democracy Day comments, which accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of complicity in the political crisis in Rivers State.
In a statement issued through his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, Lokpobiri described Dickson’s remarks as regrettable and an unfair attack on a leader with proven commitment to democracy and regional development.
Lokpobiri emphasized that President Tinubu’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey are well-documented.
He recalled Tinubu’s sacrifices during the military era, including exile and personal hardship, which helped lay the foundation for today’s democracy.
“Questioning his democratic credentials is revisionist and unbecoming of any serious statesman,” Lokpobiri stated.
Under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Niger Delta has witnessed significant progress.
Lokpobiri highlighted key achievements such as the activation of Host Community Development Trusts, accelerated Ogoni land cleanup, establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni, reconstruction of the East-West Road, and appointments of Niger Delta indigenes to critical positions.
Additionally, security improvements have led to reduced pipeline vandalism and increased investor confidence.
Lokpobiri urged Senator Dickson to avoid politicizing the situation in Rivers State, stressing that Tinubu’s administration has consistently upheld constitutional order and dialogue.
He called for unity and collaboration in the Niger Delta, urging leaders to support the President’s national renewal efforts.
“History will favour those who build, not those who tear down,” Lokpobiri concluded.
