Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has described rumours of the demolition of a mosque by the state government as unfortunate.
Reports had circulated Monday morning on social media of the demolition of Trans-Amadi Central Mosque in Port Harcourt.
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The mosque was said to have been demolished last Tuesday.
Taking journalists on a tour of the location on Monday, Wike said the false report was planted by mischief makers to create disaffection.
“I received calls from several prominent Nigerians on the fake news being circulated online. I have come here with reporters and you can see there was no mosque here,” he said.
“It is most unfortunate that fickle minded persons will claim that a Mosque was demolished at this place, when no mosque existed here. The story was concocted by mischief makers to score cheap points.”
The governor, however, said that some persons started erecting illegal foundation at the disputed land, even though they had no approval.
“The persons who started the foundation had already dragged the State Government to court on the disputed land. The Rivers State Government won the case. What they attempted to do was to start the illegal construction to tie the hands of the state government,” he said.
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Wike said that several mosques constructed on the approval of the state government exist across Port Harcourt and other major towns of the state without being demolished.
“Why would we want to bring down any mosque when there are other mosques across the state? What is the special interest on this one?” he asked.
