……Says Governor Fubara is Fighting to Protect Our Democracy
President Ahmed Bolaji Tinubu, international organisations, civil society groups, and other stakeholders have been called to intervene in the Rivers State political crisis, as it is gradually turning the state into a war zone.
A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Chief Obiora Ani, made this call on Tuesday in a press statement condemning former Governor Nyesom Wike’s involvement in the crisis, which he personally signed and sent to newsmen in Enugu. He stated that such developments have spiraled into an unacceptable disruption of governance, threatening the peace, stability, and future of the state.
Chief Ani highlighted that the violent clashes and destruction of public property, including the burning of local government secretariats following the controversial October 5 local government elections, reflect the dangerous trajectory the state is heading towards. He described Wike’s interference in the state’s governance as a deliberate distraction aimed at destabilizing Governor Similayi Fubara’s administration.
Praising Governor Fubara’s resolve to resist external pressures and end godfatherism in Rivers State, Ani called on President Tinubu to step in and restore order. He further warned that continued inaction from the presidency could result in dire consequences, as the crisis threatens not only the political stability of Rivers State but also the economic well-being of the entire country.
The statement reads “
Condemnation of Nyesom Wike’s Actions and a Call for Presidential Intervention
It is with a profound sense of dismay that I observe the continuing political crisis in Rivers State, which has been exacerbated by the reckless actions of Nyesom Wike, the former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The fallout between Wike and his successor, Governor Similayi Fubara, has spiraled into an unacceptable disruption of governance, threatening the peace, stability, and future of the state. The recent destruction of local government secretariats, carried out by elements loyal to both factions following the contentious local government elections on October 5, 2024, reflects the chaos this conflict has unleashed.
The brazen acts of violence, including the burning of public property and the needless loss of lives, serve as a grave affront to the rule of law. These actions represent an abhorrent assault on democracy, perpetrated in large part by individuals who seek to undermine the authority of Governor Fubara, a leader who has shown exceptional fortitude in resisting external pressure. Wike’s continued interference in the affairs of Rivers State, under the guise of political influence, is nothing short of a calculated distraction designed to destabilize an administration focused on governance.
Governor Fubara’s stance against the suffocating grip of godfatherism deserves unequivocal praise. His ability to maintain the integrity of his administration amidst relentless opposition is an example of true leadership in a system often marred by undue influence. His resolve to govern with independence, while maintaining the welfare of the people as his foremost priority, reflects his commitment to delivering a future free from the shackles of political manipulation.
It is, however, disconcerting that President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has yet to take decisive action in response to this unfolding crisis. His apparent reluctance to intervene in the turmoil in Rivers State is a cause for concern. Such a posture not only emboldens those perpetuating the crisis but also sends a worrying signal about the Federal Government’s commitment to the stability of the Nigerian state. The president’s engagement is urgently required to restore peace and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
I equally call upon Nigerians and the international community to voice their concern over this escalating crisis. The continued silence of global institutions, particularly those advocating for democracy and human rights, risks enabling the degeneration of the democratic process in Rivers State. The brazen disregard for law and order by political actors cannot be allowed to stand, for it jeopardizes not just the future of the state, but the very fabric of Nigerian democracy.
If left unchecked, the consequences of this crisis could be catastrophic. Rivers State, an economic cornerstone of the nation, cannot afford prolonged instability. The looming specter of lawlessness threatens not only local governance but also the broader national economy. Political violence of this magnitude has the potential to fracture the social order, leading to irreversible damage to lives, property, and democratic institutions.
The preservation of Rivers State’s future requires immediate and collective attention. Governor Fubara’s battle against political tyranny must not be fought in isolation. His efforts to restore peace and progress in the state must be supported, and those responsible for the violence and destruction must be held accountable.
I strongly urge President Tinubu to act with the urgency the situation demands, to safeguard the integrity of Rivers State, and to ensure that its governance is not hijacked by individuals driven by personal ambition and vested interests.
Signed,
Chief Obiora Ani (Ọnwa Agbani)
Chieftain of PDP, Enugu State.
