By Bridget Harrison
The recent intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has played a crucial role in quelling the mounting tension resulting from the planned impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Rivers State. Furthermore, select leaders from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have also stepped in, advocating for peace and dialogue in a bid to defuse the situation.
Amidst these efforts, the former governor, Nyesom Wike, seems determined to press forward with the removal of his successor. In response to this, several groups of young men from various regions of the state are planning to stage protests aimed at preventing Barrister Nyesom Wike from carrying out his contentious plans.
As a consequence of these developments, political discussions within Rivers State have taken on a more discreet tone, with individuals unsure of where the tide may ultimately turn. Nevertheless, a consistent sentiment prevails among the youth population – a perception of Governor Fubara as one of their own, actively representing their interests in government.
The Obedient Movement, spearheaded by Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential candidate, has aligned itself with Governor Fubara’s camp, uniting to resist the Wike-led faction. Governor Fubara himself has publicly decried violence while advocating for a peaceful resolution to the existing differences.
The state’s divided House of Assembly must reconvene and work towards a harmonious resolution, transcending the prevailing schism. However, some of the governor’s aides, known for their loyalty to Barrister Wike, are intensifying the atmosphere of discord by making provocative statements and stoking tensions, a situation that should be addressed by the relevant security agencies to maintain law and order within the state.
Preserving the peace and stability of Rivers State is of utmost importance, as it is a prerequisite for Governor Fubara to effectively fulfill his mandate of serving the people and steering the state towards a brighter future.