Following the political crisis that has engulfed Rivers State in the last few months, the Ijaw Pressure Groups have called on the international communities to intervene in the recent intimidation and abuse of power using military and police forces against the people of Rivers State, aimed at illegally removing the elected Governor and Government of Rivers State.
The coalitions are sounding the alarm on the deteriorating democratic situation in the state, and the plan to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara has raised concerns about the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The converner, coalition of Ijaw stakeholders Mrs Rosemary John-Oduone at a press briefing in Abuja Urged the international community, including the United Nations, the European Union, the African Union, and other global organizations, to take immediate action to protect Rivers State’s democracy.
John-Oduone noted that the Nigerian government’s actions are a clear threat to the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens, and it is imperative that the global community takes action to hold them accountable.
She called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to respect the democratic rights and freedoms of citizens, and take immediate action to address the crisis in the state.
Also, Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, Appah Benjamin Idubamo said the recent developments in Rivers State are alarming, to say the least. Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been suspended, and an interim administration has been put in place, with President Bola Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in the state.
He said, this move has sparked concerns about the sovereignty of Rivers State and the democratic process.
At the heart of the issue is a dispute between the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara. The controversy revolves around the control of Rivers State’s resources and the sharing of its wealth. The Minister’s alleged attempt to exert influence over the state’s finances has been met with resistance from the governor of Rivers, leading to a breakdown in relations.
He described, the President’s decision to declare a state of emergency and suspend the governor as an overreach of power.
He argue that this move undermines the democratic process and sets a dangerous precedent for the country.
He informed that the people of Rivers State are concerned about the implications of this development, particularly with regards to the control of their resources and the future of their state.
Meanwhile, the National President, Niger- Delta Progressive Youth Leadership Foundation (ND-PYLF), Chief Adams Marbo, who emphasized on the implications of declaring a state of emergency in River State.
He noted that the democratically elected government would be rendered ineffective, and someone would be appointed to take charge, which undermines democracy.
He revealed that a state of emergency is typically declared in response to a crisis or war, but in this case, it’s a politically motivated move.
He explained that the situation could have been resolved through a dialogue involving critical stakeholders in River State and the region.
Marbo added that the declaration of a state of emergency in River State is not justified, as it’s an issue between two individuals – the former governor and his political godson which should not affect the entire state.
Comrade Marbo therefore urged President Tinubu to retract his steps and find a more appropriate solution to the crisis rather than resorting to a state of emergency.
