Port Harcourt – Amidst ongoing political tension in Rivers State, the Supreme Egbesu Assembly (SEA), a traditional Ijaw institution, has issued a stern warning, vowing to “shock” President Bola Tinubu if Governor Siminalayi Fubara is impeached. This comes in response to a controversial statement by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who declared that the removal of Fubara would not lead to any significant consequences.
The unfolding crisis has drawn reactions from political figures, including former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, who has urged President Tinubu to rein in Wike for the sake of peace in Rivers State. George criticized Wike’s remarks, labeling them as inflammatory, dangerous, and damaging to Tinubu’s administration.
Ijaw Leadership Condemns Wike’s Actions
The Chairman of SEA, Werinipre Digifa, expressed strong disapproval of Wike’s approach, accusing him of arrogance and recklessness against the Ijaw people. He argued that Tinubu should be held accountable for Wike’s unchecked influence, alleging that the former Rivers Governor manipulated judicial processes in his favor.
“Wike anticipated the Supreme Court ruling, and it went exactly as he wanted. This raises concerns about Nigeria’s judicial independence. If Fubara is removed, we won’t resort to violence because the Ijaw people stand for peace, but we will not sit idly by,” Digifa stated.
The SEA leader further criticized Wike’s derogatory statements about the Ijaw ethnic group, calling his actions an unnecessary provocation. He also lamented the political maneuvering that led to Wike’s rise, blaming former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience Jonathan, for supporting a candidate who, in his view, lacks integrity.
Bode George Urges Tinubu to Address Wike’s Conduct
Echoing SEA’s concerns, Chief Bode George condemned Wike’s public outbursts, emphasizing that they undermine Tinubu’s leadership.
“Wike’s statements have embarrassed Tinubu’s administration. The President must clarify whether Wike is acting with his approval or independently. As a former military officer, I understand the dangers of escalating political tensions. Rivers State is critical to Nigeria’s economic stability, and a crisis there could have national repercussions,” George stated.
George questioned Wike’s perception of his power, pointing out that his position as an FCT Minister does not grant him authority over the legislative, executive, or judicial functions of Rivers State. He urged Tinubu to call a crisis resolution meeting between Governor Fubara and the state lawmakers before the situation worsens.
Rivers Assembly Probes Allegations Against Chief Judge
Amid the political crisis, the Rivers State House of Assembly has requested the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate allegations of age falsification against the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi. This move adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing power struggle in the state.
Meanwhile, Governor Fubara has appealed to all parties, including the 27 lawmakers involved in the political conflict, to prioritize the state’s interest and embrace peace.
The Broader Political Implications
Political analysts warn that the unfolding crisis in Rivers State could have far-reaching consequences for national stability. Wike’s role in the crisis has led to growing concerns about his unchecked influence and its potential impact on governance at the federal level. Observers urge Tinubu to take decisive action to prevent further escalation.
Political Tensions in Rivers: Concerns Raised Over Crisis and Governance
A political crisis appears to be unfolding in Rivers State, drawing comparisons to past conflicts in Nigeria’s First and Second Republics. A concerned political observer has likened the situation to the 1962 Ibadan crisis and the 1983 turmoil in the former Ondo State. He cautioned that the current events in Rivers may be part of a broader strategy by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to seize power forcefully.
Expressing urgency, he called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene by restraining Nyesom Wike, warning that failure to act could lead to unrest. “When a crisis begins, the President must not claim he was not forewarned. A wise man listens to advice—enough is enough,” he stated.
Fubara Calls for Peace, Urges Lawmakers to Prioritize Rivers’ Interests
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has appealed to the 27 lawmakers and other political stakeholders involved in the state’s conflict to put the interest of Rivers first and embrace peace. Speaking at the inauguration of Okrika Grammar School in Okrika Local Government Area, the governor emphasized the need for unity and compliance with legal rulings.
He reminded lawmakers of their obligation to respect court decisions and work towards stability, stressing that governance can only thrive in a peaceful environment. “The Supreme Court has given its verdict, and we have no choice but to abide by it. The best way forward is for all parties to set aside their differences for the sake of Rivers State,” Fubara stated.
The governor also recounted how the Anglican Communion’s Diocese of Okrika had approached him for assistance in rehabilitating the school, which had been in a state of disrepair. In response, his administration prioritized the project as part of its focus on education, healthcare, and agriculture.
“We are committed to uplifting the educational sector despite the challenges facing our administration. This school, now managed by the church, is no longer under government control. We trust that the church will take full responsibility for maintaining its facilities,” he added.
Rivers Assembly Seeks DSS Investigation into Chief Judge’s Alleged Age Falsification
In a separate development, the Rivers State House of Assembly has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate allegations of age falsification against the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi.
During plenary, the Leader of the House, Major Jack, presented key documents to Speaker Martins Amaewhule, which reportedly suggest discrepancies in the Chief Judge’s official records.
Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol raised concerns, stating, “The documents before me indicate that Justice Amadi may have falsified his age in service. This is a serious matter, and the House must take legislative notice.”
Following deliberations, lawmakers resolved to formally request an investigation by the DSS. Speaker Amaewhule acknowledged the gravity of the allegations, noting that a thorough inquiry is necessary before any further action is taken.
“The documents suggest possible age falsification, and an investigation must be conducted. The House has therefore voted to request a DSS probe into the matter,” he concluded.
As Nigeria navigates this turbulent political landscape, stakeholders emphasize the need for constructive dialogue to resolve the Rivers State crisis peacefully.
Read more on Nigeria’s political climate
READ ALSO:
Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp:
Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear:
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT MEDIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.