With the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State drawing to a close, elders have appealed for unity and cooperation as Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Professor Ngozi Odu, and the state House of Assembly under Rt. Hon Martins Amaewhule return to their constitutional duties.
In a statement on Wednesday, September 17, the chairman of the Rivers Elders Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, said the period marks a chance for the state to take stock.
“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,” he noted.
The council urged politicians and interest groups to stop inflaming tensions and instead focus on reconciliation and stability.
“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,” the statement read.
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Elders commended Fubara and the Assembly for reconciling in Abuja and reaffirming their truce before President Bola Tinubu, stressing that their commitment must hold.
“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,” the statement continued.
The group also acknowledged the role of Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, in facilitating dialogue between the warring factions.
They described him as “a man with a large heart” for ensuring both sides presented their agreement directly to the president.
Finally, the elders thanked President Tinubu for his decisive intervention in resolving the crisis.
“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 declared.