The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, warning that failure to resolve the ongoing tensions could have severe consequences for the nation as a whole.
The crisis intensified after the Supreme Court last Friday upheld a lower court decision, halting state allocations until a valid House of Assembly, with Martin Amaewhule as Speaker, is properly constituted. This ruling has led to mounting tensions in the state, particularly with the Ijaw National Congress and Ijaw Youths Council voicing strong opposition to any potential impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The Ijaw groups warned that any attempt to remove the governor could destabilize the Niger Delta and disrupt vital oil production in the region. In light of these developments, Blessing Akinlosotu, Executive Director of the NCSCN, expressed grave concerns over recent statements and actions that could undermine the rule of law, incite violence, or threaten democratic integrity in Rivers.
Akinlosotu strongly condemned the confrontational stance of the Ijaw Youth Congress, urging them to pursue legal and constitutional avenues to address their concerns over the Supreme Court’s judgment. He emphasized, “NCSCN is totally against any actions or statements that challenge the judicial system, incite violence, or sow division. These actions amount to a serious threat to the peace and stability of Rivers State.”
In his statement, Akinlosotu also appealed directly to President Tinubu, acknowledging his previous efforts to mediate the crisis, but urging him not to give up on resolving the situation. “We humbly and passionately appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to once again intervene in the Rivers crisis. Although past efforts may have been frustrated, we trust in his ability to guide the state towards peace and unity. Rivers cannot be allowed to descend into chaos, as the consequences would be too costly for the entire nation.”
Additionally, Akinlosotu called on Governor Fubara to avoid any preemptive moves regarding his potential impeachment, urging all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to work cooperatively with the executive for the greater good of the state. “We urge Governor Fubara to refrain from reacting prematurely to impeachment threats. Instead, he should focus on presenting the State Budget to the legally recognized House of Assembly, in compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling. We also call on all members of the House to set aside personal grievances and collaborate with the executive to ensure the state’s progress,” Akinlosotu added.
With political stability at risk, the NCSCN’s appeal highlights the urgent need for all parties involved to prioritize peace and democracy over divisive actions.
