Niger Delta Leaders Urge President Tinubu to Address Rivers State Crisis
Leaders from the Niger Delta Forum have urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the political crisis in Rivers State, citing potential national repercussions. The President stressed the significance of the rule of law and urged local leaders to foster peace. The discussions highlighted the critical need for collaboration and development in the region, with focus on infrastructure and stability.
On a recent visit to the Presidential Villa, representatives from the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) sought intervention from President Bola Tinubu regarding the political crisis afflicting Rivers State. They expressed concerns that the unrest could have profound implications not just for Rivers, but for the broader Niger Delta and Nigeria at large. Obong Victor Attah, former governor of Akwa Ibom State and co-chair of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees, emphasized the need for heightened attention on this crisis, warning that it poses a threat to national stability.
During the meeting, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law in Rivers as essential for achieving lasting peace and economic prosperity. He acknowledged the need for all parties involved to respect judicial rulings to maintain democratic principles. “I should not be here as President without a rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary,” he stated, encouraging stakeholders to work collectively towards reconciliation and stability within the state.
President Tinubu also stressed the responsibility of local leaders in fostering peace in their communities. He called for their assistance in implementing court rulings and encouraged them to privately and publicly counsel the state’s governor. He assured them that the federal government aims to prevent the suffering of Rivers State residents due to the ongoing democratic challenges.
The President praised the contributions of the Niger Delta leadership and commended Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, head of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), for his efforts in regional development. He also stated that initiatives such as the coastal road project and the collaboration with international companies to establish ports in the region would yield significant economic advantages.
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, a co-chairman of PANDEF, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to the well-being of the South-South region, assuring him of their support. Earlier, Obong Victor Attah reiterated that the political instability in Rivers could negatively affect national peace and stability, further advocating for comprehensive focus on infrastructure, development, and fiscal federalism in the South-South region. The PANDEF delegation comprised various leaders from politics, tradition, and community sectors, ensuring a broad representation of the Niger Delta’s interests.
In conclusion, the leaders of the Niger Delta are calling upon President Tinubu to directly address the political turmoil in Rivers State, which they believe endangers not only regional but national stability. The President has emphasized the necessity of adhering to the rule of law and the importance of local leadership in promoting peace and development. Continued collaboration among governmental stakeholders could pave the way for improved conditions in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
