Ann-Kio-Briggs-Raises-Concerns Over-Rivers-State-Finances-Amid-Political-Crisis
Ann-Kio Briggs Raises Concerns Over Rivers State Finances Amid Political Crisis
Prominent environmentalist and rights activist, Ann-Kio Briggs, has weighed in on the ongoing political upheaval in Rivers State, calling for transparency and accountability in the management of the state’s finances. Speaking during a recent interview with Arise Television, Briggs also questioned the validity of recent claims regarding Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s alleged reconciliation efforts with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Doubts Over Alleged Reconciliation Gesture
Addressing reports circulating in the media that Governor Fubara had knelt before Wike in a move to mend their political differences, Briggs made it clear that there was no verifiable evidence to confirm such an event. “I have seen no photographs or videos proving that the governor knelt before his predecessor,” she said. She further explained that, even if such a gesture did occur, it was not the most pressing issue for the people of Rivers State.
“What matters more,” she emphasized, “is not whether he knelt or didn’t kneel, but the root causes of the political crisis we are facing and how it can be resolved in the interest of the state’s citizens.”
Reports of Moved Bank Accounts and Unaccounted Funds
Briggs drew attention to disturbing information she has received suggesting that Rivers State’s financial accounts may have been tampered with. According to her, numerous individuals have reached out to her with claims that the state's bank account has been moved, and that Governor Fubara had left behind substantial funds in the state’s coffers.
“I am now getting calls from people alleging that the Rivers State bank account has been transferred and that Governor Fubara left a lot of money,” she disclosed. While she acknowledged that these reports are still unconfirmed, she maintained that such serious claims deserve prompt and thorough investigation.
“Accountability is essential,” Briggs stressed. “We are dealing with public resources, and the people of Rivers State deserve to know the truth about what is happening to their money.”
The Role of Rumours in Crisis Situations
Briggs noted that in times of political instability, rumors often gain momentum and can shape public perception, whether or not they are based on fact. She cautioned that such claims, no matter how speculative, must not be dismissed outright without proper scrutiny.
“Even if what I’m hearing are just rumors, they should not be ignored,” she said. “In a climate of uncertainty, speculation can easily become accepted as truth. That is why transparency and timely communication from those in authority are vital.”
She urged relevant authorities, including law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, to examine the claims rigorously to determine their validity and take appropriate action.
Appeal to President Tinubu for Intervention
Briggs also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take a proactive stance in resolving the ongoing crisis in Rivers State. She referenced a previous statement in which the President reportedly declared a state of emergency in the state and appointed a sole administrator to oversee its governance.
According to her, if there is any truth to the allegations of financial misappropriation or illicit movement of state funds, then federal agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) must step in immediately.
“If this allegation is true,” she stated, “then the EFCC should move in to investigate what would amount to a daylight robbery of state resources. The people must be protected, and their interests must come first.”
The Call for Clarity and Leadership
In her final remarks, Briggs reiterated the importance of restoring public confidence in government institutions through decisive and transparent action. She pointed out that the citizens of Rivers State are watching events closely and expect accountability from those in leadership.
“The people of Rivers State are not just passive observers in this matter,” she said. “They are stakeholders who deserve clear answers and responsible leadership. We must prioritize truth, justice, and the wellbeing of the state above all political interests.”
Briggs’ comments underscore the urgent need for a calm and constructive resolution to the political crisis in Rivers State and a commitment to transparency in the management of public resources
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