Former lawmakers from Rivers State meet with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, advocating for peace and unity in the state amid rising tensions.
The ex-National Assembly members from Rivers State have appealed to political leaders in the region to give preference to peace over individual interests and uphold the rule of law.
After meeting with Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Port Harcourt, the ex-lawmakers who served at various times in both the Senate and House of Representatives, including during the 3rd Republic, made an appeal to the media.
Bernard Mikko, the ex-member of House of Representatives for Khana/Gokana read out the group’s statement.
He refused to declare a state of emergency and opposed any effort to undermine the constitutional rights of elected council chairpersons.
Mikko emphasized that despite our political differences, we are united in firmly believing and being committed to the importance of promoting unity, peace, and progress within Rivers State.
Our unwavering dedication to the rule of law remains unchanged; it is a fundamental pillar of democracy that guarantees no individual, even those in power, are exempt from being accountable to the laws. Upholding this critical principle protects fairness, impartiality and responsibility for everyone alike.
It is important to respect the tenure of local government councils as mandated by the constitution.
“We have faith in the government’s capability to tackle any issues that may emerge, and consequently consider calls for a state of emergency unnecessary. We are confident they can maintain peace and stability in Rivers State.”
Despite being former lawmakers, they praised Governor Similarly Fubara for his significant contribution to the promotion of peace and development in the state.
Our stance is to refuse any endeavors that aim at hindering the development of Rivers State for individual interests, and we encourage society to turn down and resist such attempts.
Governor Sim Fubara’s endeavors to advance peace and progress are admirable, and we encourage all Nigerians to back his initiatives.
It is our plea that all Nigerians with good intentions provide their support for Governor Sim Fubara’s mandate, which has been validated by the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Such backing must be given without anxiety, bias or diversion.
The ex-legislators deemed it imperative to express their stance on the political turmoil in Rivers State due to its detrimental impact on both peace and progress within the region, invalidating any notion that remaining silent is a preferable approach.
Our cherished state is facing a critical moment where silence must be shattered. We cannot ignore the impending danger that threatens our hard-won democracy, which has been established on the sacrifice of heroic individuals. It fills us with immense distress to witness the current atmosphere of anxiety and hysteria in our community; we can no longer turn a blind eye to it.
Mikko acknowledged that Rivers State, a crucial economic center of our country, is currently facing threats to its peace and stability.
Present were their leader, Senator John Azuta Mbata along with Senators Ngoji Denton West and Honourable Bernard Mikko as well as Jeffreys Owor, Adokiye Young-Harry and Daemi Kunaiyi-Akpanah.
Honourables Christopher Berewari, Paworiso Samuel-Horsefall, Christopher Chuama, Randoff Iwo Brown and Agolia Aboko are among the others.
Senators Lee Maeba and Adawari Pepple, as well as Bennett Birabi and Honourable Austin Opara- a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives – who were signatories to the communique did not attend the media briefing.
