Group questions use of Lokpobiri’s name by ex-Wife

The Nigerians for Good Governance has cautioned members of the public, particularly associates and business partners of Minister of State, Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri against dealing with Mrs. Susan Waibode, whom it described as the former wife of the minister, warning against any attempt to use the Minister’s name or position to create an impression of official authority to unsuspecting members of the public.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, Emmanuel Thomas, the group said Mrs. Susan Waibode was no longer married to the Minister and, consequently, should not be presented in public materials in a manner that suggests she currently has a spousal or official relationship with him.

Thomas specifically took exception to promotional materials identifying her as “Hon. Mrs. Susan Waibode Heineken Lokpobiri” and describing her as the wife of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources.

According to the group, the continued use of the name “Heineken Lokpobiri” in connection with her activities could create confusion among members of the public, business, ans political associates of the minister, particularly where such materials are perceived as suggesting an intimate association, such as existing marriage, with the Minister or the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

The group therefore called on Mrs. Waibode to desist from any representation that, in its view, could give the impression that she is currently the wife, representative, agent or authorised associate of the Minister.

“We believe members of the public and political associates of the minister have a right to know whether an individual claiming an association with a serving public official has any current official relationship or mandate,” Thomas said.

He urged Nigerians, Lokpobiri’s business partners and political associates to exercise caution and independently verify claims of association, endorsement or representation before entering into financial, business or other arrangements with Mrs. Waibode or organisations associated with her.

The group further stressed that any dealings with Mrs. Waibode or the Reaching Every Adult and Child Foundation should not automatically be interpreted as dealings with, or authorised by, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri or the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

Thomas said the group’s intervention was intended to prevent what it described as possible public confusion arising from the use of the Minister’s name and official position in connection with private activities.