Senator Lokpobiri faults Senator Dickson’s criticism of president Tinubu’s Democratic Credentials.

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Oil, has criticized Senator Seriake Dickson over his Democracy Day comments, which accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of complicity in the political crisis in Rivers State.

In a statement issued through Mrs. Nneamaka Okafor, his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Senator Lokpobiri described Senator Dickson's remarks as regrettable and an unfair attack on a leader with proven commitment to democracy and regional development.

Senator Lokpobiri emphasized that President Tinubu’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey are well-documented.

He recalled President Tinubu’s sacrifices during the military era, including exile and personal hardship, which helped lay the foundation for today’s democracy.

He said Under President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, the Niger Delta has witnessed significant progress.

Senator Lokpobiri highlighted key achievements such as the activation of Host Community Development Trusts, accelerated Ogoni land cleanup, establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, FUET in Ogoni, reconstruction of the East-West Road, and appointments of Niger Delta indigenes to critical positions.

Additionally, security improvements have led to reduced pipeline vandalism and increased investor confidence.

Senator Lokpobiri urged Senator Dickson to avoid politicizing the situation in Rivers State, stressing that President Tinubu's administration has consistently upheld constitutional order and dialogue.

He called for unity and collaboration in the Niger Delta, urging leaders to support the President's national renewal efforts.