President Bola Tinubu has called on all stakeholders in Rivers State to adhere to the rule of law to ensure lasting peace and prosperity. This appeal was made during a meeting with political leaders from the South-South region, including representatives of the Niger Delta under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, shared details of the meeting in a statement titled, ‘President Tinubu calls for adherence to the rule of law to restore peace in Rivers State.’ Tinubu emphasized the importance of respecting the judiciary to uphold democracy and foster harmony.
This call comes amid a prolonged power struggle between the former Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and the current Governor, Sim Fubara. A recent Supreme Court ruling favored the faction led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, aligned with Wike, reinstating 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike and challenging Fubara’s earlier attempts to control the state assembly.
Despite Fubara’s promise to comply with the judgment, some factions are calling for his resignation or impeachment. Tinubu urged leaders to be broad-minded, selfless, and focused on the larger vision of salvaging the region politically and economically by respecting the judiciary’s interpretations of the Constitution.
“I am here by the grace of God, appreciating your support, prayers, and concern. I campaigned for this position and begged for the job. I must do it with all my heart, whatever it takes,” Tinubu said. He reiterated his commitment to achieving the promises and goals set for Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of caring for the Niger Delta, which he referred to as the “goose that lays the golden egg.”
Tinubu stressed that Nigeria is governed by the rule of law and expressed total confidence in the judiciary. He urged the delegation to ensure that relevant court rulings are implemented swiftly and called for both private and public intervention to counsel the governor.
“Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor. Pursue the path of peace and stability,” he added.
The President highlighted his priority for community development, particularly projects and programs that positively impact citizens. He commended the leadership of the Niger Delta and praised the efforts of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, leader of the Niger Delta Development Commission.
Tinubu also noted the ongoing coastal road project, which will create new economic benefits for the Niger Delta and the country. He mentioned that international companies are working to build ports in the Niger Delta States.
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, thanked the President for his commitment to the South-South region and the appointments given to Niger Delta indigenes. Former governor of Akwa Ibom State and co-chair of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, Obong Victor Attah, called for further intervention in the Rivers State crises, emphasizing the far-reaching consequences on national stability.
The PANDEF delegation included former governors, legislators, ministers, traditional leaders, religious figures, and youth and women groups.
