The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has distanced itself from Tony Okocha, dismissing him as an imposter and urging the public to disregard his recent call for the resignation or impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Okocha, while addressing journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday, had issued an ultimatum to Governor Fubara, demanding that he step down or face impeachment.
However, in a strongly worded statement, Rivers APC Chairman Emeka Beke denounced Okocha’s claims, asserting that he is neither a recognized member of the party nor authorized to speak on its behalf.
Beke firmly refuted Okocha’s position within the party, emphasizing that he has no standing to issue statements on behalf of Rivers APC.
“My attention has been drawn to a statement issued by one faceless Tony Okocha, a non-member of our party, addressing himself as the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State and calling for the resignation of the Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara,” Beke said.
He described Okocha as a “known enemy of the state” and a “crisis merchant” whose calls for the governor’s resignation should be ignored.
The Rivers APC chairman further cautioned Okocha against parading himself as the party chairman, labeling his activities a “public nuisance.” He also reiterated the party’s support for Governor Fubara, commending his leadership and efforts in governance.
“As a party, we are committed to supporting good governance and are happy that the governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Joseph Fubara, has rescued the state from executive rascality and mismanagement,” Beke stated.
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Beke criticized Okocha’s approach to impeachment discussions, stressing that such processes are dictated by constitutional provisions and not by individuals making public declarations.
“Tony Okocha should learn that the issue of impeachment is a constitutional matter, with well-enacted provisions and procedures, and not something an individual will wake up and begin to address the media about,” he remarked.
He also emphasized that Governor Fubara was duly elected by the people of Rivers State and should be accorded due respect.
In a bid to prevent further political tension, Beke called on security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police and the Director of the State Security Service (DSS), to take action against Okocha.
“I call on the Inspector General of Police, the Director of State Security Service (DSS), and other conventional security agencies to note that Chief Tony Okocha is an imposter and should be called to order to forestall a breakdown of law and order in the state,” Beke urged.
He accused Okocha of attempting to infiltrate the party “through the back door” and noted that a court had already ruled against his membership claim.
Concluding his statement, Beke issued a final warning to Okocha, urging him to halt his activities immediately to avoid further legal and political consequences.