You are here: HomeNews2020 05 11Article 356998

General News of Monday, 11 May 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Oby Ezekwesili slams Gov Wike over demolished hotels in Rivers

Oby Ezekwesili Oby Ezekwesili

Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili has criticized Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State for demolishing two hotels.

MyNigeria.com reported that Wike demolished Prodest Hotel in Alode and Etemeteh Hotel in Onn, both in Eleme Local Government Area, for violating the lockdown order in the state.

Describing the action of the governor, Ezekwesili stated that it is a "flagrant abuse of power" which "breeds anarchy in society".

She also advised the owners of the hotels to sue the Rivers State Government over the demolition.

She tweeted: "Power in the hands of persons without self-discipline in the absence of social accountability creates monsters in any society. Lord Acton will forever be right. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.

"I have seen enough flagrant abuse of power among our political class to know that both they and citizens are still enamoured of the unaccountable governance style of the inglorious military era.

"Such arrogance of power against citizens because of delegated temporary ‘title’.

"Democratic ethos, values, principles and nuances totally forbid the kind of action Governor Wike of Rivers took in demolishing a hotel no matter whatever “Executive Order” he travels signed. His action breeds anarchy in society and is condemnable. There is the morning after.

"It is self-discipline that makes one with enormous powers to be restrained in exercising it.

"Whatever else you do as a young person preparing for Public Leadership in this land, please get self-discipline before whatever ‘title’ they start calling you to swell your head.

"It is important for the hotel-owners in Rivers State to sue the Rivers State Government.

"Our Democracy cannot continue to be operated in the breach by this half-civilian-half-military mentality. Enough said".