The Rivers State Government has defended Governor Nyesom Wike against claims by the Minister of Transport that the governor was responsible for the New Year killing in the state. Mr Rotimi Amaech had earlier on Tuesday accused the governor of encouraging thuggery and, thereby, causing the killing of up to 16 persons on New Year’s Day in the state.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday condemned the New Year tragedy which occurred in various states across the nation including Rivers, Ilorin, Benue and Kaduna State.

The President in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu expressed shock and outrage at reports of the killings.

The Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministries, Enugu, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, has warned President Muhammadu Buhari against seeking reelection in 2019 or risk being ‘blown away shamefully’ by the wind of change which he set off when he defeated former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.

Popular Nigerian Human rights and Social activist, Comrade Jaye Gaskia on Tuesday declared his intention to run for the office of the President in the 2019 general elections. Comrade Gaskia who stated this in his New Year message to Nigerians said he is moved to vie for the position because the country has suffered “decades of incompetent, selfish, greedy and light-fingered leadership” stressing that the country now needs fresh ideas and fresh individuals and platforms.

The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi has asked members of Rivers State House of Assembly to quickly commence the impeachment process of the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike following his alleged inability to guarantee the safety of lives and properties in the state.

I join my fellow citizens this morning to welcome and celebrate the New Year 2018. This year promises to be pivotal in our quest for CHANGE. Unfortunately, I am saddened to acknowledge that for many this Christmas and New Year holidays have been anything but merry and happy.