Rivers Elders Urge Stakeholders to Embrace Peace as Democratic Governance Returns

As Rivers State prepares to transition from emergency rule to the restoration of full democratic governance under Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, and the House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, the Rivers Elders Council has called on all stakeholders to embrace peace and unity for the progress of the state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Chairman of the Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, said the moment presents an opportunity for Rivers people to reflect on the past and chart a path that would prevent the recurrence of recent political crises.

“This moment affords us an opportunity to reflect on where we are coming from, what to do to avoid the reoccurrence of the unfortunate circumstances we found ourselves in, and most importantly, how to sustain peace, unity, and development in our beloved Rivers State,” Alabraba stated.

The elders cautioned individuals and groups still promoting discord to desist from making inflammatory remarks and urged them to prioritize the collective interest of the state.

“We admonish the few individuals and groups still fanning the embers of discord to come to terms with the fact that the crisis is over and stop making inciting statements. They should allow Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly to work together without distractions,” the statement added.

The Council commended both Governor Fubara and the Assembly leadership for reconciling and reaffirming their commitment to peace before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, stressing that their vow to work harmoniously “remains sacrosanct.”

Acknowledging the patience of Rivers people during the emergency rule, the elders said the state’s resilience demonstrated faith in President Tinubu’s administration, whose intervention they credited with averting a major political breakdown.

The statement also gave special recognition to former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, for his pivotal role in the reconciliation process.

“He demonstrated that he was a man with a large heart. He not only brought the parties together but also ensured that they briefed Mr. President first hand on the details of their understanding,” the Council noted.

The elders further thanked President Tinubu for his decisive actions in restoring peace to Rivers State and reaffirmed their loyalty to his Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Mr. President, we appreciate you and assure you that you have already captured the hearts of the people of Rivers State. As your administration continues to pursue the Renewed Hope Agenda, you can count on the support of Rivers people at all times,” the statement concluded.