In a media coverage by Symfoni TV from 13:06, Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of community involvement beyond ceremonial events. “I want to appeal that while we go on with this program, and it is not just coming to commission the water project and a few other things that have been outlined here. The Ogoni people, the directly affected people, should be part of it; they should own what you’re doing,” he stated.
He questioned the current contracting process, saying, “How do they own it? It’s not about you sitting in Abuja, awarding the contracts to somebody we don’t know.”
While acknowledging the need for competent contractors, the governor stressed that community participation creates essential local investment. “In as much as I don’t support issuing it to somebody who cannot deliver, but the community people should be part of the process, so that they have that sense of belonging and that sense of responsibility,” he explained.
He concluded with a direct appeal to federal authorities: “So, I want to advise that going forward, whatever you’re doing, and whatever plan you have for them, let them be part of it. It is important.”
