The Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum (RIVLEF) has reaffirmed its strong support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid escalating political tensions in the state. The forum, led by its Chairman, Chief Rufus Ada-George, emphasized the need for unity and peace during a news conference on Thursday in Port Harcourt.
RIVLEF Chairman, Ada-George, a former governor of Rivers, commended Governor Fubara for his steadfast leadership and resilience in the face of undue provocations from certain political actors. He stressed that despite these challenges, Fubara has maintained a peaceful and calm disposition, which has been essential in safeguarding the state's interests.
“We commend Governor Fubara for his courage and determination in standing firm and resolute in defending the interests of the people of Rivers state. His leadership, along with the efforts of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), has been crucial in upholding democracy and democratic values in the state,” Ada-George remarked.
The RIVLEF chairman also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to mitigate the growing political tensions in Rivers State. However, he criticized the president for not addressing the role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, whom he accused of being a significant contributor to the crisis.
“While we appreciate President Tinubu’s call for peace and his advice to aggrieved political parties and individuals to seek legal recourse, the failure to mention Wike’s role in these political crises sends the wrong signal to the public. Wike remains a key figure in the ongoing tension, and addressing his involvement is crucial for lasting peace,” Ada-George explained.
The chairman further highlighted that the recent local government elections had already resolved the battle for political control in Rivers State, as the people have made their choices known. He called on political actors to respect the will of the people and refrain from further incitement or violence.
“The people of Rivers have spoken through the ballot, and any resort to violence or arson will only harm the state. We urge the police to swiftly implement President Tinubu’s directive to secure local government offices, maintain law and order, and protect lives and property,” Ada-George advised.
He also took the opportunity to commend the people of Rivers State for their active participation and peaceful behavior during the local government elections. Their civic engagement was a testament to the strength of democracy in the region.
Former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Gabriel Toby, echoed Ada-George's sentiments and expressed confidence that the measures being implemented would ensure continued peace and stability in the state. He reassured the public that law enforcement agencies are capable of maintaining order, despite some concerns regarding the police's alleged partisan behavior before the elections.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum is composed of prominent figures, including retired Rear Admiral Ochegomie Fingesi, former member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council, retired Group Captain John Kalio, former Military Administrator of Yobe State, Senator Andrew Uchendu, renowned environmental and human rights activist Annkio Briggs, and Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, among others.
These distinguished members, along with other prominent voices in Rivers State, have pledged their continued support for Governor Fubara and their commitment to ensuring the state remains peaceful, democratic, and secure for all its residents.