The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu, to again intervene in the lingering political crisis in Rivers State, warning that failure to resolve the tensions could have dire consequences for the nation.
The council in a statement on Saturday, issued by its the Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu, expressed concern over statements, and actions that could undermine the rule of law, incite violence, or disrupt democratic integrity in Rivers State.
He condemned the recent posture of the Ijaw Youth Congress, urging them to seek legal, and constitutional means to address their grievances over the Supreme Court’s judgment.
“NCSCN is totally against any utterance or act that could undermine the rule of law, peace, stability, and democratic Integrity of Rivers State, knowing fully well that statements that challenge the judicial system, incite violence, sow division, or undermine law enforcement amount to a treasonable felony.
“The council outrightly condemns the war posture of the Ijaw Youth Congress, calling on them to tow legal options, and lawful means of driving home their dissatisfaction with the Supreme Court Judgement,” Akinlosotu said.
In appealing to Tinubu mediate the crisis, he acknowledged the president’s previous efforts to mediate the crisis, but urged him not to relent in ensuring peace and stability in Rivers.
“We use this medium to humbly, and passionately, appeal to President Bola Tinubu to once again wade into the Rivers crisis. We are aware of the past frustrated attempts made by him.
“However, as a large-hearted father, and pillar of the democracy of modern Nigeria, we enjoin Mr. President never to grow weary in seeking peace, unity, and progress of any state under his administration.
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“Rivers cannot be allowed to be plunged into anarchy, as the consequences would be too expensive for the entire nation,” he said.
He however, urged the governor to avoid preemptive actions regarding potential impeachment moves against him, calling on all members of the state House of Assembly to work together with the executive.
“We call on Fubara not to be pre-emptive of any plot of impeachment, but to rather pursue democratic tenets by re-presenting the state budget to the legally recognized House of Assembly in fulfilment of the Supreme Court decision.
“All members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, must put aside their grievances, and work harmoniously with the executive for the greater good of the state,” Akinlosotu added.
