Tag: political crisis

Uncovering the Causes Behind the Escalating Tensions Former Nigerian President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan once stated, “My political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.” This sentiment underscored his unwillingness to let political ambition fuel violence. However, his tenure was marked by criticisms, including his claim that he had not exercised even a fraction of his presidential power, raising questions about his leadership. Similarly, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara appears to be treading a similar path, opting for restraint amid the ongoing political turbulence in the state. His reluctance to wield executive power has led many to perceive his leadership as weak, a factor contributing to the deepening crisis. A Leadership Under Fire Long before his passing, former Petroleum Minister Professor Tam David-West labeled Jonathan as Nigeria’s “weakest President.” A comparable perception is now being formed about Governor Fubara’s leadership. Since October 29, 2023, when impeachment threats first surfaced, many analysts argue that Fubara’s inaction has emboldened his opponents. While he anticipates a political resolution, his adversaries actively maneuver to oust him, especially after the Supreme Court’s unanimous 5-0 ruling against him. Lack of Strategic Consultations Sources within government circles reveal that Governor Fubara tends to operate in isolation, disregarding advice from political elders who support his administration. Even high-profile figures such as former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and General Ibrahim Babangida, as well as the Sultan of Sokoto, remain unconsulted despite their potential influence. Reports also suggest that Fubara distanced himself from late elder statesman Edwin Clark, despite Clark’s vocal support for his administration. Instead, Fubara surrounds himself with political figures perceived as lightweight, many of whom were previously exiled from Rivers State by former Governor Nyesom Wike. Governance Challenges and Resistance Although Fubara is regarded as generous and committed to state development, his reluctance to engage in power struggles has left him vulnerable. A senior Rivers political figure noted, “He is a nice man, but nice men don’t survive in politics without fighting back.” The recent Supreme Court ruling appears to have awakened him to the gravity of the situation, but observers question whether he can recover lost ground. Furthermore, some elders criticize Fubara for his financial conservatism. One remarked, “Last Christmas, we received nothing from the government despite our loyalty. We support Rivers State, not Fubara personally, but leadership requires diplomacy.” Peace Negotiations and Power Struggles A retired northern general reportedly sought to mediate peace in Rivers State but was met with resistance. While some believe this was due to vested interests in the region’s oil wealth, others argue that Fubara needs to broaden his political approach beyond ethnic considerations. Comrade Franklin Ntekim defends the governor, asserting that his reserved demeanor is a calculated political strategy. However, critics like social commentator Gregory Akpan challenge this, questioning how a strong leader could lose five consolidated Supreme Court cases without mounting an effective defense. Intensified Legislative Showdown Following the Supreme Court ruling that reinstated pro-Wike lawmakers, the Rivers State Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, issued two successive ultimatums. The first demanded that Governor Fubara present the 2025 budget within 48 hours, while the second ordered the removal of unapproved commissioners and political appointees within another 48 hours. Governor Fubara responded through Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Dr. Tammy Danagogo, denying receipt of any official budget request, dismissing the ultimatum as a social media maneuver. This legislative pressure underscores the Assembly’s urgency to force Fubara’s impeachment, setting the stage for further political drama. Support Base and Potential Survival Despite mounting opposition, Governor Fubara enjoys strong backing from key regional organizations, including the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF), Ijaw National Congress (INC), and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC). INC President Professor Benjamin Okaba recently warned of severe consequences should the governor be removed. As the political battle intensifies, the fate of Governor Fubara remains uncertain. Will he emerge victorious, or will he succumb to mounting legislative and political pressure? The coming days will determine whether he can assert his authority and secure his position. The leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in the eastern zone has strongly condemned the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the defected Martins Amawhule-led House of Assembly, demanding that Governor Sir Siminialayi Fubara present the 2025 budget. The IYC described the ultimatum as a calculated attempt to create political instability and possibly impeach the governor. According to the group, this move is not only an attack on their leadership but also a direct challenge to the will of the Rivers people, who elected one of their own. The IYC firmly declared that it will not allow political adversaries to undermine their mandate. The group vowed to protect their rights and ensure that the voices of the Ijaw people remain heard and respected. Meanwhile, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) recalled past political struggles, highlighting the 2003 assassination of Marshall Harry after he supported Sergeant Awuse’s governorship bid, which was a significant loss for the Ijaw people. By 2007, key Ijaw figures like Soboma George and Farrah Dagogo played vital roles in securing victory for Sir Celestine Omehia, while Prince Igodo, a Kalabari-Ijaw warlord, was killed during Omehia’s swearing-in to prevent security breaches. The INC further referenced the 2011 political battle when Rotimi Amaechi attempted to nominate Pastor Tonye Cole as a minister but was overridden by Dame Patience Jonathan, who ensured Nyesom Wike got the position instead. The INC lamented that despite the Ijaw people’s consistent political sacrifices, the Ikwerre political elite is now attempting to derail the tenure of the first riverine governor in decades. The organization vowed to defend Governor Fubara with unwavering determination, stressing that they would not allow this long-awaited opportunity for the Ijaw people to be cut short. Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the INC, warned that while the INC has consistently promoted peace in the Niger Delta, leading to increased oil production and national revenue, the same resources are now being used to marginalize the Ijaw people. Issuing a stern warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the INC

By Emmanuel

March 8, 2025March 8, 2025