Tinubu’s Directive on Rivers Crisis Sparks Division in South-South Region
The political crisis in Rivers State has intensified following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to leaders of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). During a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu instructed PANDEF representatives to advise Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to adhere to the Supreme Court ruling and promote peace amid the ongoing conflict with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The PANDEF delegation, led by former military governor King Alfred Diete-Spiff and ex-Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah, sought the president’s intervention to prevent the dispute from escalating. However, Tinubu’s response has led to widespread criticism, with stakeholders questioning the fairness of his stance.
Controversy Over Presidential Intervention
Tinubu’s Approach Favors Wike – INC President Prof. Okaba
Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), criticized Tinubu’s handling of the situation, alleging that his directive emboldened Wike while undermining Fubara’s authority. Okaba remarked that PANDEF members felt humiliated by the president’s remarks and questioned whether his directive was a genuine attempt to restore peace or a strategic move to empower Wike.
He further asserted that sustainable peace in Rivers State requires a balanced approach and urged Tinubu to ensure justice and fairness. Okaba warned that the Ijaw community would not tolerate any actions that undermine Fubara’s administration.
Legal Perspective: Nwoko (SAN) Declares Tinubu’s Advice Unnecessary
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Akwa Ibom Attorney-General, Uwemedimo Nwoko, noted that Fubara was already complying with the Supreme Court ruling, making Tinubu’s directive redundant. He argued that the president should have also addressed the role of the 27 lawmakers aligned with Wike, who continue to challenge Fubara’s authority.
Former Deputy Governor Ekpenyong: “Private Interests Overriding Public Good”
Senator Chris Ekpenyong, ex-deputy governor of Akwa Ibom, expressed concern over the prioritization of personal political interests over the well-being of Rivers residents. He questioned why the Supreme Court’s ruling did not consider the lawmakers’ defection from PDP to APC and called for an end to political maneuvering that disrupts governance.
PANDEF’s Credibility in Mediation Questioned
Niger Delta activist Zik Gbemre criticized PANDEF’s ability to mediate the crisis, arguing that the group is too Ijaw-dominated to serve as a neutral arbiter. He suggested that Wike’s supporters are unlikely to trust PANDEF’s intervention, given its perceived alignment with Fubara.
Gbemre further highlighted that past mediation efforts led by PANDEF, including those initiated by the late Edwin Clark, lacked neutrality and fairness. He proposed that an independent body should oversee the resolution process.
Political Implications and Future Prospects
President Tinubu’s intervention has inadvertently deepened the crisis rather than resolving it. Observers note that Fubara’s failed attempt to present the 2025 budget underscores the tense political climate in Rivers State. Moving forward, experts emphasize the need for an unbiased reconciliation process to restore stability.
The Need for a Way Forward
It is crucial to find a path forward. Governor Sim Fubara’s actions stem from his deep concern for the people of Rivers State. If he were merely a transactional leader, he could have struck a deal that would ultimately harm the state. However, he has chosen to prioritize the welfare of the people, ensuring that the state’s resources are used for their benefit rather than for political bargains. This stance is at the root of the ongoing impasse. That said, legislators represent various constituencies, and it is the responsibility of the elders, leaders of the Niger Delta, and the people of Rivers State to advise and guide those they have elected to serve their interests.
Strategic Engagement is Key — Ambakederimo, South-South Leader
Joseph Ambakederimo, Convener of the South-South Reawakening Group, emphasized the importance of dialogue and adherence to due process in resolving political disputes. He warned that, even as the governor has committed to fully implementing the Supreme Court’s ruling, caution must be exercised. While the governor’s decision is commendable, he must carefully choose his words and focus on strategic engagement rather than escalating tensions. The primary concern should be the well-being of Rivers residents, not engaging with elements that seek to incite conflict. A middle ground solution is possible, and all parties should embrace it in the best interest of the state. Ultimately, common sense must prevail, and the rule of law must be upheld.
Judiciary Under Scrutiny — Akene, Development Consultant
Development consultant Furoebi Akene criticized President Tinubu’s confidence in the judiciary, suggesting it could be a veiled attempt to influence legal proceedings. He pointed out the irregularities in past Supreme Court decisions, where a five-member panel overturned a verdict previously given by a seven-member panel on the same issue. Akene argued that such inconsistencies undermine the legal system, making it appear that constitutional principles no longer hold weight. While peace missions are commendable, he cautioned against jeopardizing reputations in the process. According to him, if any integrity remains within the judiciary, it is already severely compromised.
A Balanced Resolution — Morris, Former CLO Chair, Bayelsa
Former Civil Liberties Organisation chairman in Bayelsa State, Alagoa Morris, expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of democracy in Nigeria. While acknowledging the political nature of governance, he lamented the undue influence on the judiciary, which has contributed to the nation’s challenges. In his view, the best solution for Rivers State would be a no-winner, no-loser scenario, where Governor Fubara completes his four-year term while the legislators retain their positions. However, he noted that those benefiting from judicial rulings may seek absolute control, making it difficult to find common ground, much like Shylock demanding his pound of flesh.
Seeking a Political Solution — Adima, Political Activist
Delta State political activist Blessing Adima stressed the need for dialogue with both the governor and the 27 legislators. He urged stakeholders to appeal to the lawmakers to reason with Governor Fubara and work towards unity, rather than fueling political discord. A collective resolution is essential to prevent internal destruction, as a political settlement is the only viable path forward.
Presidential Intervention Needed — West, Bayelsa CLO Chair
David West, chairman of the Civil Liberties Organisation in Bayelsa State, supported President Tinubu’s call for a resolution but suggested a more direct approach. He proposed that the president personally invite both Governor Fubara and the 27 lawmakers to Aso Rock for a discussion. Drawing from the president’s intervention in Lagos State’s political crisis, West recommended that Tinubu order all parties to collaborate and abandon impeachment plans. However, he questioned whether stakeholders alone could resolve the crisis, given the ambitions of certain political figures. He specifically urged the president to call the FCT Minister to order, as Wike appears determined to see the governor removed from office.
West emphasized that for the sake of Rivers State’s governance and development, Fubara must be allowed to complete his tenure. He called on the president to ensure a permanent resolution to this crisis, preventing further political instability in the state.
For more insights into the evolving political landscape in Nigeria, visit The Guardian Nigeria.
With the South-South region divided and key stakeholders voicing concerns, the unfolding events in Rivers State remain critical to Nigeria’s political stability.
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