Ijaw Groups Oppose Impeachment of Governor Fubara, Warn of Oil Shutdown
The Ijaw Youth Council and Ijaw National Congress warn against Governor Fubara’s impeachment, threatening to halt oil production in the Niger Delta if political tensions escalate. They urge urgent federal intervention, citing potential adverse effects on governance and national energy security, while the Rivers State Electoral Commission prepares for an upcoming stakeholders’ meeting.
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) have raised significant concerns regarding the political tensions in Rivers State. These groups warn of potential repercussions, including the cessation of oil production in the Niger Delta, should Governor Siminalayi Fubara be impeached. They interpret the 48-hour ultimatum from the House of Assembly, demanding the governor present the 2025 budget, as a tactic to destabilize the region and facilitate his possible removal.
In a formal statement from IYC officials, Chairman Prince Datolu Sukubo and Secretary Tamunokuro Dango urged President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu to take immediate action to avert further escalation. They expressed that instability in Rivers State would compromise governance and threaten the nation’s oil production and energy security, reflecting the state’s critical role in the economy.
The IYC asserted, “If Rivers State is starved of its economic rights because of one who wants to monopolize the state’s economy, we will also starve the economy of Nigeria.” Meanwhile, the INC firmly opposed any impeachment attempts, asserting that such actions would incite widespread instability throughout the Niger Delta. INC President Prof. Benjamin Okaba condemned the Supreme Court ruling for neglecting the historical contributions of the Ijaw community to governance.
Additionally, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has scheduled a stakeholders’ meeting for March 5, 2025, at its Headquarters in Port Harcourt. This meeting will involve political leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, religious organizations, and media representatives, focusing on the electoral timetable and guidelines for the upcoming local council elections.
In summary, the Ijaw Youth Council and the Ijaw National Congress have voiced strong opposition to the possible impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, threatening to disrupt oil production in the Niger Delta. They emphasize that political instability could negatively impact national energy security and governance. The groups call upon federal authorities for intervention, highlighting the significance of the Ijaw people’s historical contributions to the state’s governance.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
