Prominent Ijaw leaders and concerned citizens have issued a strong call for peace in Rivers State, urging former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, to desist from political interference in the administration of Governor Sir Dr. Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS.
In a statement signed by Evangelist Hon. Dr. Bannerman Timitula Embiowei, the group of Ijaw stakeholders outlined key demands to preserve stability, unity, and democratic governance in the state.
The statement, which emphasized the Ijaw people’s commitment to peace and development, outlined several urgent appeals:
1. End Political Interference – Wike is urged to allow Governor Fubara to govern without intimidation or undue influence.
2. Respect the Ijaw Nation – As Nigeria’s fourth-largest ethnic group, the Ijaw people demand respect and an end to derogatory remarks.
3. Promote Unity, Not Division – Leaders must stop creating ethnic tensions for political gain.
4. Respect Ijaw Elders and PANDEF – The group condemned verbal attacks on Ijaw leaders such as King Alfred Diete-Spiff and Ambassador Boladei Igali, demanding an immediate apology.
5. Support Peaceful Governance – Any actions that could lead to instability or a state of emergency should be avoided.
6. Uphold Democratic Institutions – The Rivers State government must function independently without external manipulation.
7. Prioritize Development Over Politics – The focus should shift from political battles to policies that benefit all Rivers people.
8. Respect Due Process – Political grievances should be resolved through democratic and legal means.
9. Drop the Impeachment Plot – The statement warned against any attempt to impeach Governor Fubara, stating that Rivers people would resist such moves.
Evangelist Embiowei also issued a stark warning regarding the consequences of continued political tension, noting that the Ijaw people would not tolerate further disrespect.
He reminded the nation of the historical role of the Ijaw people in governing Rivers State before the creation of Bayelsa, citing leaders like Diete-Spiff and Melford Okilo. He questioned the current political dynamics and warned that continued provocation could lead to unrest, potentially affecting oil production in the Niger Delta.
“The federal government must not allow Wike’s actions to set this country on fire,” the statement cautioned. It also hinted at political consequences in the 2027 elections, stating that Ijaw voters might withdraw support from the current administration if their grievances remain unaddressed.
The statement concluded with a call for all Ijaw people to unite beyond party lines, emphasizing the need to protect their identity and interests before political affiliations.
“As Ijaw sons and daughters, we must think, say, and act Ijaw. Our tribe has been insulted and dehumanized for too long. It is time to wake up,” the statement declared.
With political tensions escalating, observers are watching closely to see how Wike, Governor Fubara, and the federal government will respond to these demands for peace and justice in Rivers State.
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