The civil society organisation, Citizens Action for Good Governance, has urged all parties involved in the Rivers State crisis to sheath their swords and allow peace to prevail in the interest of democracy.
Mr. Murtala Gamji, the group’s Convener, made this appeal on Wednesday at a news conference in Abuja titled “Addressing the Meddlesomeness of the G-60 Opposition Group in the Rivers State’s Political Crisis”.
Gamji emphasized the need for an amicable resolution to the misunderstanding between the former Governor Nyesom Wike’s group and Governor Siminalaye Fubara’s group, who are members of the state House of Assembly. He also called on the group of 60 lawmakers in the House of Representatives, known as the G-60, to work towards resolving the crisis.
“The Rivers crisis is an internal matter within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Unity should be promoted rather than taking sides and exacerbating the situation. This raises questions about the true intentions and purpose of the G-60 group, which has failed to provide meaningful solutions to national issues. We urge Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere and the G-60 group to cease their divisive actions and work towards fostering unity and progress within the opposition parties. The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who prioritise the common good over personal gain. We demand an end to the meddling in Rivers state’s internal affairs and a focus on addressing the pressing issues facing our nation,” Gamji said.
He called on all involved parties to uphold the principles of integrity, unity, and good conscience in building a democratic society.
“This is a call to order and a call to serve in the true Nigerian spirit. We must work together to build a brighter future for all Nigerians,” he added.
Co-Convener Mr. Enyi Ejike-Umunnabuike also spoke, urging all aggrieved parties to respect the rule of law. He emphasized that the resolution of the Rivers crisis should align with President Bola Tinubu’s reconciliation efforts.
“The way forward was first espoused by His Excellency President Bola Tinubu when he convened the peace and reconciliation meeting at the State House, Abuja. At that meeting, an eight-point resolution was raised, addressing issues and values regarding crisis resolution. However, midway through implementation, the governor of Rivers State was influenced by others who deviated from what had been agreed upon before the President. For the sake of clarity, the President of the country is the father of the entire nation, and every individual, no matter how old, should respect and abide by his mediation efforts,” Ejike-Umunnabuike said.
He concluded by stressing the importance of following the rule of law as the guiding principle for public behavior.
