– Group Condemns Ex-Gov’s Action, Calls For Caution
The unfriendly relationship between Governor Sim Fubara of River State and his erstwhile political god father and predecessor in office, Nyesom Wike, who facilitated his victory at the polls, is said to be rocking the foundation of the state, as the State House of Assembly complex was reportedly set ablaze at about 9pm on Sunday.
The genesis of the matter is said to be plans by the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Fubara and the vehement resistance of the latter’s supporters to the move.
While the State legislature has given sundry reasons for the planned impeachment of Fubara, supporters of the state governor are accusing former Governor Nyesom Wike of being behind the plot to impeach his successor.
This, has reportedly torn the State House of Assembly into shreds as those loyal to the incumbent Governor have impeached the Speaker to pre-empt the Governor’s impeachment, after those loyal to Wike had earlier impeached the Majority Leader of the House who is suspected to be loyal to Governor Fubara.
A source who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity said, “there is tension everywhere in the state. Things are gradually falling apart and if urgent steps are not taken to stem the tide, nobody knows what the outcome will be, especially with the burning of the State Assembly complex. But the fact is that most residents of the state are not happy with the over bearing attitude and conduct of Nyesom Wike who always thinks that he should dictate the pace”.
However, a group known as the Coalition of Democratic Vanguard comprising concerned citizens who are committed to the sustenance of democratic values have warned the former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike and his allies who are said to be behind the plot to impeach the Governor Fubara and the Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Edison Ehie.
The Coalition condemns in very strong terms any attempt to undermine the democratic process and called on all parties to respect the wish of the people of Rivers State who willingly gave Governor Fubara their mandate.
The group in a statement signed by Comrade Thomson Orumbo and Chief Peter Nwabunna, as Chairman and Secretary respectively, said, “At the core of any functioning democracy lies the principle of free and fair elections, which provide citizens with the opportunity to choose their leaders, and Rivers people has chosen Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS. Impeachment attempts should be rooted in concrete evidence of wrongdoing and carried out only through legitimate channels, ensuring transparency and accountability. The Coalition of Democratic Vanguard emphasizes that any attempts to impeach Governor Fubara and Rt Hon Edison Ehie must adhere to these democratic principles, if not, it will be fully resisted by Rivers people.
Rivers State has made significant strides in the pursuit of development and stability under the leadership of Governor Fubara. The governor, has championed policies and initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of the citizens. Political squabbles and power struggles should not hinder the progress, and the people’s mandate must be respected.
The Coalition of Democratic Vanguard calls on Chief Nyesom Wike and his co-travellers to prioritize the interests of the people and set aside personal and political interest. The unity and stability of Rivers State should be the primary goal, with cooperative efforts dedicated to achieving sustained development, improved infrastructure, and the welfare of its citizens.
Should Chief Nyesom Wike and his co-travellers have genuine concerns regarding the performance or integrity of Governor Fubara and Rt Hon Edison Ehie, they should first present concrete evidence through appropriate channels such as investigations or inquiries. This would ensure that any actions taken are based on facts instead of subjective perceptions or personal motives.
The Coalition of Democratic Vanguard reiterates its warning to Chief Nyesom Wike and his allies against any attempts to undermine the democratic process to plough unrest in Rivers State. It calls for adherence to democratic principles, unity for the greater good, and the preservation of stability and progress in the Rivers State. It is crucial that all parties involved put the interests of Rivers people first and work towards building a prosperous future for the state.
Rivers State is not the personal estate of Wike, as such should be allowed to be governed by the chosen one of Rivers State, Gov. Fubara for the advancement of a greater Rivers State”.
