Tinubu Finally Speaks on Rivers Political Crisis, Advises Governor Fubara on the Way Forward

President Bola Tinubu has addressed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, offering guidance to Governor Siminalayi Fubara on resolving the tensions. Read more on his recommendations.

President Bola Tinubu has addressed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, disclosing both his public and behind-the-scenes efforts to restore stability in the region.

During a meeting with leaders of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Tinubu voiced his concern about the rising tensions.

He claimed to have anticipated the current situation and had been actively working to mediate peace among the key stakeholders.

The President called on PANDEF leaders to go back home and promote peaceful dialogue, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law.

He urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to put the recommendations he received into action and uphold the rule of law, emphasizing that the Supreme Court is the ultimate authority in the nation. Additionally, he appealed to Niger Delta leaders for their support in helping him achieve this objective.

The president made these comments following the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Martins Amaewhule as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

In its February 28 ruling, the Supreme Court directed the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Accountant General of the Federation, and other financial institutions to suspend disbursement of funds to the Rivers State government. The court charged that this action was due to what it described as “flagrant disobedience” by Rivers State concerning judicial orders and emphasized that adherence to legal requirements would be a prerequisite for any future release of funds.

The ruling represented a political setback for Governor Fubara, as the panel of five justices unanimously rejected his cross-appeal that questioned the legitimacy of the House of Assembly under Speaker Martins Amaewhule. This decision validated the authority of 27 lawmakers who are aligned with former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court invalidated the recent local government elections in Rivers State, ruling them null and void because of Electoral Act violations.