President Bola Tinubu has called on all political stakeholders in Rivers State to adhere to the rule of law to ensure lasting peace and stability in the state.
Tinubu made the appeal during a meeting with leaders of the Niger Delta under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement titled, “President Tinubu Calls for Adherence to the Rule of Law to Restore Peace in Rivers State.”
The President emphasized the importance of respecting judicial decisions, stating that the judiciary plays a critical role in maintaining democracy and harmony.
His comments come amid the ongoing political conflict between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and the incumbent Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
The Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of the faction led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, a Wike ally, reinstating 27 lawmakers who were previously declared to have lost their seats. The ruling challenged Governor Fubara’s authority over the state assembly.
Although Fubara has pledged to comply with the court ruling, tensions remain as some factions continue to call for his resignation or impeachment.
Tinubu urged the political leaders to set aside personal interests and work towards the overall development of Rivers State.
“I campaigned for this position and begged for the job. I must do it with all my heart, whatever it takes,” Tinubu said.
The President acknowledged the importance of the Niger Delta to Nigeria’s economy and assured the delegation of his commitment to the region’s progress.
“Yes, the Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for the goose; otherwise, we lose the golden egg,” he stated.
Tinubu disclosed that efforts had been made to resolve the political crisis in Rivers State, including a signed agreement between the warring factions. He insisted that all parties must abide by the constitution and judicial rulings.
“Nigeria is governed by the rule of law. If not for legal frameworks, I would not be serving as President today. I have total confidence in the judiciary. While humans can make mistakes, once a court has ruled, that decision stands,” he added.
The President urged PANDEF leaders to ensure the swift implementation of court rulings and to counsel the governor on the need for peace.
“Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor,” he said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s focus on community development and economic revitalization, particularly in the Niger Delta.
“Go back home and take charge of peace. If you need me, let me know. I have given the situation enough time and consideration. The people of Rivers State must be protected,” he stated.
The President commended the leadership of PANDEF for their efforts in advocating for the region’s development. He also praised the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his performance and urged support for his work.
The meeting also addressed other regional issues, including infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism.
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and Co-Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude to Tinubu for his commitment to the South-South region.
“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support,” Diete-Spiff said.
Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Obong Victor Attah, who co-chairs PANDEF’s Board of Trustees, called for further intervention in the Rivers crisis, warning that instability in the state could threaten national peace.
Meanwhile, Governor Fubara may extend a fresh invitation to the 27 reinstated lawmakers as part of ongoing peace efforts.
On Sunday, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, had invited the lawmakers for a meeting on Monday at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The agenda included discussions on a suitable venue for legislative sessions, the presentation of the 2025 budget, and the settlement of outstanding allowances.
However, the lawmakers rejected the invitation, citing improper communication. Some of them claimed they first learned about it on social media.
Despite this setback, Fubara’s spokesperson, Jerry Omatsogunwa, said the governor might send another invitation, as he remains committed to peace.
“The governor is a man of peace and may decide to rewrite them to ensure they are on the same page. Even in the Bible, God said, ‘Come, let us reason together,’” Omatsogunwa said.
Fubara also reaffirmed his commitment to fully implementing the Supreme Court’s ruling.
“The Supreme Court has given its judgment, and my administration will implement it fully. The reason is clear: It is not about me; it is about the good of this state,” he said at the inauguration of the Judges’ Quarters in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
He lamented the financial losses caused by the crisis and stressed that resources should be directed toward development.
“No price is too big to pay for peace in this state. At the end of the day, it is about our people,” he added.
Meanwhile, a pro-Fubara group, Supreme Council for Sim Worldwide, has warned against any attempt to impeach the governor, saying it could trigger unrest.
Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt, the group’s leader, Esezi Rukani, cautioned lawmakers against underestimating public support for Fubara.
“The governor may not fight them, but those who voted for him will. Simplicity is not stupidity,” Rukani said.
The group reaffirmed its backing for the governor and dismissed calls for his resignation as baseless.
“We stand with the governor. Whether anybody likes it or not, he will finish this first term in good health,” Rukani added.
