Rivers Elders Criticize President Tinubu Over Political Crises
By Wisdom Tide
October 11, 2024
Political Structures in Rivers State Settled, Says Former Governor
In the wake of the recent local government elections in Rivers State, a group of prominent elders has criticized President Bola Tinubu's handling of the political crisis in the state. Leading the forum, a former governor of Rivers State emphasized that the battle for political influence and control in the region was over. He pointed out that the people of Rivers had made their choices clear during the elections, and any attempts to challenge this outcome would be counterproductive.
The former governor stressed that the true custodians of political power in the state were its people, not political elites. He advised those opposing the election results to accept the will of the electorate and refrain from actions that could escalate tensions.
“The people of Rivers have now restructured, and any resort to violence and arson will not benefit us,” he remarked. He called on dissenting voices to cease their opposition and instead work towards ensuring the continued peace and stability of the state.
Call for Prompt Police Action to Secure Peace
The former governor further urged the police to act swiftly in implementing President Tinubu’s directives to secure local government offices, maintain law and order, and protect lives and property. He noted that following the conclusion of the elections, it was crucial for security agencies to play their part in preventing any further unrest. According to him, ensuring the safety of both public infrastructure and the citizens was vital for the overall well-being of Rivers State.
“Therefore, we call on the police to promptly implement President Tinubu’s directive to secure local government offices, maintain law and order, and protect lives and property,” he added.
Commendation for Peaceful Elections
In his remarks, Mr. Ada-George, another respected elder from Rivers State, commended the residents for their active participation in the local elections and for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the process. He applauded the people for showing restraint and maturity, which he said reflected the collective desire of the state to move forward without further disruption.
Ada-George emphasized that the peaceful conduct during the elections served as a testament to the will of Rivers people to settle political issues through democratic means rather than violence.
Trust in Law Enforcement Agencies
Gabriel Toby, a former deputy governor of Rivers State, expressed his confidence in the ability of the police and other law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order in the state. Despite some concerns about the partisanship of the police prior to the elections, Toby reassured the public that the police would carry out their duties impartially and professionally. He encouraged the security agencies to continue upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the outcome of the elections was respected.
He reiterated the forum’s belief in the commitment of the police to safeguard the state’s democratic process and preserve public order. “We reaffirm our trust in the police and other law enforcement agencies to protect the peace in Rivers State,” Toby said.
Prominent Figures Lend Support
The forum of elders is comprised of several prominent figures with distinguished careers in public service and activism. According to reports by the News Agency of Nigeria, members include notable individuals such as Ochegomie Fingesi, a retired rear admiral and former member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council, and John Kalio, a retired group captain and former military administrator of Yobe State.
Additionally, the forum features Andrew Uchendu, a foremost environmental and rights activist, alongside Annkio Briggs, a well-known advocate for social justice, and Anabs Sara-Igbe, a respected voice in the Niger Delta region. Their collective influence lends weight to the forum’s call for peace and stability in Rivers State.
Conclusion
The forum of Rivers elders has made it clear that the political situation in the state has been resolved through the democratic process, and any further challenges would only lead to unnecessary conflict. They have urged the police and security forces to ensure that law and order are maintained, in line with President Tinubu’s directives. The elders’ call for calm and responsible leadership comes at a critical time, as Rivers State looks to move beyond the political tensions that have plagued it and towards a more peaceful and stable future.
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