By Tayo Joseph Lagos, Nigeria
Nigerians of the Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality residing in the United States of America commenced their 2017 National Convention in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday .
In attendance at the 20th National Convention are Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Former Rivers State Governor, Sir Celestine Omehia, Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Austin Opara and prominent Ikwerre leaders from across the world.
Declaring open the National Convention, President of the Ogbakor Ikwerre United States of America, Dr Fortune Worlugbum said that the association is committed to the advancement of Ikwerre land and her people.
He charged Ikwerre people to remain vigilant as the nation witnesses political changes, especially following agitations from different quarters.
He said: “Today in Nigeria, regionalism threats are looming. The north is threatening, the Igbos are agitating for Biafra and the newest group- The South-South region made up of Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers , Akwa Ibom and Cross River States agitating for a South-South Republic with Port Harcourt as its capital. Ikwerre must remain vigilant of any political talks going on around us and make our voice clear and heard. While none of these threats are legitimate, Ikwerre ethnicity must not be taken unawares “.
He lauded Governor Wike for working hard to develop the state, pointing out that the association will always work with the governor to move the state forward.
Vice President of Ogbakor Ikwerre, United States of America, Hon Temple Ogundu said that Governor Wike has made a difference in the lives of the people of Rivers State.
He said: “I have been to Rivers State in the last three years. I have seen huge differences. The Wike administration has improved the state in terms of infrastructural development.
“The roads are well constructed and the projects are relevant to the state. What the Rivers State Governor is doing is very impressive. He should continue to work and not be distracted. He should face his developmental projects and not allow anyone distract him”.
Governor Wike used the first day of Ogbakor Ikwerre USA National Convention to present copies of his Midterm Accountability to Ikwerre people in the USA. He distributed copies of New Rivers Magazine, Mr Projects Publication and the 2nd Anniversary Book detailing his projects and programmes in the last two years.
Former Rivers State Governor, Sir Celestine Omehia addressed the Ogbakor Ikwerre United States of America . Governor Wike will address the August body on Sunday.
