By our reporter
A former National Legal Adviser of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Barr Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN), has criticized the National Assembly’s proposed North West Development Commission, questioning how the Federal Government intends to fund it.
He argued that the creation of development commissions for all six zones would lead to increased costs of governance and a return to a unitary system, contrary to true federalism.
North West Development Commission
Instead, he advocated for a return to true federalism, where states develop resources within their territories and pay loyalties and taxes to the Federal Government.
The former National Legal PDP adviser expressed satisfaction with Governor Umo Eno’s performance, stating that it is enough to earn him a second term. Enoidem made this statement while hosting the Coalition of Online Publishers Association (COOPA) at his Shelter Afrique residence on Friday, May 17.
Enoidem commended Governor Umo Eno for his implementation of the ARISE Agenda, noting that his performance in less than a year has exceeded expectations. He highlighted the governor’s achievements in infrastructure development, education, rural development, agriculture, primary healthcare, road construction, erosion control, payment of gratuity, bursary, and pension, youth development, shelter for the aged, and entrepreneurship.
Enoidem acknowledged the rapid development of rural communities by the governor, emphasizing that no government can completely develop all rural communities in four or eight years. He praised the governor’s bottom-up approach, stating that he has taken the government back to the people.
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The chairman of the Maintain Peace Movement also criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his overbearing influence and intolerance of contrary opinions.
He noted that Wike’s attitude led to the exit of former Governors Ben Ayade and Dave Umahi from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Enoidem further stated that Rivers State has been emancipated from Wike’s “slavery” and high-handedness, thanks to Governor Fubara. He questioned Wike’s claim to still be a member of the PDP, citing his public endorsement and support for a candidate from another political party as anti-party activity.
