Former President Goodluck Jonathan has issued a call for reconciliation in the political turmoil plaguing Rivers State, urging Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike to collaborate.
This plea was made by Jonathan on Monday during the launch of the Trans-Kalabari Road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where he expressed concern over the escalating political strife within Rivers State.
“Outgoing and incoming governors must understand the importance of working together for the greater good of the state’s populace. This is crucial,” he emphasized.
“In the context of Rivers State, the esteemed Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must unite their efforts towards the advancement of the state and its people. The current tension is counterproductive.”
“Therefore, I implore all political figures to set aside their differences for the sake of the people of Rivers State. I echo the sentiments of the state’s leadership and other concerned citizens who have been advocating for a truce and cessation of hostilities,” Jonathan stated.
“Let us engage in endeavors that will elevate the image of the state.”
“We urge both Wike and Fubara to reconcile. One hand alone cannot clap; it requires two hands to create an impact. Hence, we urge them to collaborate in the interest of the collective good,” Jonathan added.
Rivers State has been embroiled in a political crisis since late last year, stemming from a fallout between Wike, now serving as the FCT Minister and Fubara. Despite interventions by President Bola Tinubu and a seeming resolution of the conflict, recent events have reignited tensions.
Several commissioners aligned with Wike have resigned for the second time, while legislators loyal to the FCT minister have escalated their confrontation with Fubara.
Expressing deep concern over the prolonged conflict, Jonathan stressed the significance of maintaining stability in the oil-rich state for the overall development of the nation.
“Rivers State holds immense importance in the fabric of our nation. It serves as the heartbeat of the Niger Delta region. Any destabilization in Rivers State would have a ripple effect across the entire Niger Delta,” Jonathan cautioned.
“The repercussions would extend beyond the Niger Delta, as someone who hails from this region, I understand the dynamics at play, and we must avert any crisis in Rivers State,” he affirmed.
Jonathan voiced his apprehension regarding the recurrent power struggles between governors and their predecessors, emphasizing that such conflicts do not bode well for the unity of Nigeria.
“The process of transition in Nigeria is becoming increasingly problematic. While presidential successions at the federal level are not without challenges, they are generally better managed,” he noted.
“Conversely, the state level is witnessing heightened discord in several regions, and I believe this is not conducive to the nation’s progress,” Jonathan concluded.
From: Nwakaji Peace Martins
