In a significant development, the Rivers State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has sealed a multi-million naira hotel under construction in the New GRA area of Port Harcourt. The hotel, owned by Samuel Nwanosike, the immediate past Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area and a close ally of Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, was sealed on Wednesday, July 24.
The Ministry had originally approved the construction of a four-storey building. However, officials discovered that the structure was being illegally expanded to five storeys, an action deemed a violation of urban planning regulations. Commissioner for Urban and Physical Development, Isaac Umejuru, confirmed that this breach was illegal and warranted intervention.
In a viral video that surfaced on Thursday, Nwanosike was seen engaging in a heated exchange with Ministry staff during the sealing process. He admitted to the violation but criticized the officials for allegedly not responding to his correspondences regarding the issue. The Ministry, however, countered that they had addressed his communications and that construction had proceeded despite their warnings.
Nwanosike was captured on video pleading with officials to allow him to pay the penalties and continue the construction, as the facility was nearing completion. This incident has raised eyebrows, with some speculating that the action against Nwanosike might be linked to political dynamics, given his status as a critic of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his connections with Governor Wike.
The controversy surrounding the hotel construction has also led to calls for further scrutiny of Nwanosike’s financial background. Governor Fubara had previously instructed a probe into the finances of local government councils, following the swearing-in of new Caretaker Committee Chairmen. The recent revelations about Nwanosike's significant financial capabilities have prompted demands for investigations by anti-graft agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to determine the legitimacy of his wealth.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring compliance with urban planning laws and addressing any potential financial discrepancies linked to high-profile figures in the state.
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