The Rivers Elders Council has urged Siminalayi Fubara and the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to collaborate effectively and avoid distractions as they prepare to resume their duties this Thursday, following the conclusion of the state of emergency imposed on the state.
Reflecting on the political turmoil that led to the emergency declaration by President Bola Tinubu, the council emphasized the importance of learning from past challenges. They called on all involved parties to wholeheartedly embrace the renewed atmosphere of peace and reconciliation that has been restored in Rivers State.
In their appeal, the elders stressed the need to prevent any repetition of the crisis that necessitated the emergency rule. Their focus is on fostering lasting peace, unity, and progress within the oil-rich state.
Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, chairman of the council, praised the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his instrumental role in facilitating the reconciliation process. This commendation was part of a statement released in Port Harcourt titled, ‘End Of Emergency Rule: Let’s Unite For the Peace And Progress Of Our Dear State’.
The statement also acknowledged the willingness of Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly to move beyond previous conflicts as they prepare to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities.
However, the elders cautioned individuals or groups still nurturing resentment to recognize that the crisis has ended. They urged these parties to refrain from making provocative remarks or issuing statements that could destabilize the state for personal advantage.
As the emergency rule draws to a close, the council highlighted the significance of this transition, noting that Governor Fubara, his deputy Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon Martins Amaewhule are set to resume full democratic governance. This moment offers a chance to reflect on past challenges, devise strategies to prevent future conflicts, and prioritize the state’s peace, unity, and development.
The elders called on all stakeholders to embrace the reconciliation that has been achieved, emphasizing that peace must be the foundation moving forward.
They further admonished those who continue to stir discord, urging them to accept that the crisis is behind and to cease inflammatory rhetoric and media provocations aimed at personal gain.
“The priority must be the welfare of Rivers State,” the statement urged, “allowing Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly to collaborate without hindrance.”
The council also lauded the governor and legislative leadership for their commitment to peace, noting their joint visit to the presidential villa where they reaffirmed their reconciliation before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
This pledge to the President is regarded as solemn and binding, with the elders emphasizing that the leaders must now work in unison for the benefit of the state’s citizens, who expect nothing less.
Expressing gratitude to the people of Rivers State, the elders acknowledged their patience and resilience during the emergency period, viewing it as a testament to their trust in President Tinubu’s administration. They credited his decisive intervention with averting a looming crisis.
Special recognition was given to Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the FCT, for his pivotal role in orchestrating the reconciliation. His efforts demonstrated magnanimity and dedication, as he not only united the conflicting parties but also ensured they personally briefed the President on their agreement.
The council extended heartfelt thanks to President Tinubu for steering Rivers State away from turmoil and securing the peace now enjoyed by its people.
They praised the President’s confidence in Minister Wike, describing him as a valued leader within the cabinet. The resolution of the Rivers crisis under his stewardship was seen as a clear indication of the President’s goodwill toward the state.
Concluding, the elders assured President Tinubu of the unwavering support of Rivers State’s populace as his administration advances the Renewed Hope Agenda, affirming that he has earned the enduring respect and loyalty of the people.
