By Jane Okeke
The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, a coalition of civil rights organizations, has called for urgent action following explosive allegations made by Dr. George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service of Rivers State.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, the coalition outlined several claims by Nwaeke that, if proven true, would allegedly expose severe governance failures and threaten the stability of the state’s democratic institutions.
The allegations, made by Nwaeke during a recent public address, have sparked widespread concern. They include claims of arson, financial misconduct, public safety threats, militant collusion, and labor rights violations. These allegations, according to the coalition, demand immediate and thorough investigation by key law enforcement agencies.
“Key Allegations : Directives for Arson: Dr. Nwaeke accused suspended Governor Sim Fubara of ordering his Chief of Staff, Mr. Edison Ehie, to orchestrate the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This act, if confirmed, would be a direct violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, which mandates the government to prioritize the security and welfare of the people.
“Corruption and Financial Mismanagement: The former Head of Service also revealed claims of large sums of money being disbursed for personal gain, implicating Governor Fubara in high-level corruption. Dr. Nwaeke further alleged that a bag of money was provided specifically to execute the suspected arson.
“Threats to Public Safety and Security: Dr. Nwaeke raised alarms about potential sabotage of state infrastructure, which could lead to public disorder. Such actions would be in direct violation of the Terrorism Prevention Act (2011), according to the coalition,” the coalition stated, among others.
The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness called on Nigerian Police Force to launch a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into the alleged arson and its implications for the legislative integrity of Rivers State.
The group urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to lead an investigation into the bombing and burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly in December 2023, which resulted in its demolition.
The coalition also asked the Department of State Service to investigate the potential links between Governor Fubara’s administration and militant groups, emphasizing the need for prompt action to safeguard public security.
The coalition also commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, a move the group believes has helped stabilize the region amidst the political turmoil.
The group called on the relevant authorities to act swiftly, transparently, and impartially to restore public trust in the governance institutions of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
The coalition reaffirmed their commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring that the allegations are investigated to the fullest extent of the law.
