By Daniel Abia, P/Harcourt
As the end of the emergency rule in Rivers State beckons, and restoration of full democratic governance ushers in Governor Siminilayi Fubara, his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu and the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon Martins Amaewhule, to resume their constitutional duties, Rivers elders council has called on all parties to embrace genuine peace for the progress of the state.
A statement by the council’s chairman, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba on Wednesday said this moment affords the state an opportunity to reflect on a number of issues such as “where we are coming from, what to do to avoid the reoccurrence of the unfortunate circumstances we found ourselves and significantly, how to sustain peace, unity and development in our beloved Rivers State.”
The elders urged all stakeholders, without exception, to embrace the peace and reconciliation that has now returned to the state.
The statement read, “We also quickly wish to admonish the few individuals and groups who are still fanning the embers of discord to come to terms with the fact that the crisis is over and stop making inflammatory statements, inciting rhetoric in the media and whipping up sentiments for their selfish interests. They should prioritize the interest of the state and allow Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly to work together without further distractions.
“We equally commend the Governor and the Leadership of the House of Assembly for making peace. At this point, we can only remind them that they did not only agree on peace in Abuja but also, on their own, went to the Villa and affirmed their reconciliation before His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. That vow before Mr. President remains sacrosanct. Therefore, going forward, they must work harmoniously in the interest of the state. The people of Rivers State expect nothing less from them.
“We use this opportunity to salute the good people of Rivers State for their patience and understanding throughout the period of the emergency rule. It is an attestation of faith in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose proactive action averted the disaster that was about to descend on the state.”
The statement hailed “the indefatigable political leader of Rivers State, the former Governor of the State and Minister of the FCT, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, deserves a special mention for his role in mid-wifing the entire reconciliation process.
“He demonstrated that he was a man with a large heart. He did not only bring the parties together but also ensured that the parties went to Mr. President to brief him first hand on the details of their understanding.”
The elders council thanked President Tinubu for bringing Rivers State back from the brink and taking actions to ensure the peace that they now enjoy in the state.
“We thank you once again for the confidence reposed in our son, brother, associate, and cherished leader as a member of your cabinet. Your astute resolution of the Rivers crisis is yet another manifestation of your goodwill towards the state.
“Mr. President, we appreciate you and assure you that you have already captured the hearts of the people of Rivers State and as your administration continues to pursue the Renewed Hope Agenda, you can count on the support of Rivers people at all times,” the council said.
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