The Rivers State Elders and leaders Forum has warned against plot to Governor Siminialayi Fubara of the state.
It also called for an end to violence and lawlessness in the state and demanded proper investigation into the crisis in the state and those responsible be brought to Justice.
The elders and leaders forum in a statement by Adm. O. P. Fingesi, HH Anabs Sara Egbe, HRH N. L. A. Ede Obolo II, Captain Nwankwo, Eze Tony Woherom, Chief Marcus Atata, Dr. Kio J. Tams, Prof. Bristol Alagbariya, Senator Wilson Ake, Dr. Silva Opusunju, Senator Andrew Uchendu, said:
“The Rivers State Elders and leaders Forum met today December 17, 2023, in Port Harcourt under the leadership of Chief Rufus George, former Governor of Rivers State.
“The Forum reviewed the outcome of its previous meetings and follow up actions which include letters seeking audience with our sons, Governor Siminialayi Fubara, and Chief Nyesom Wike, former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
“The Forum reviewed the embarrassing and dangerous ongoing happenings in Rivers State and by extension Nigeria, viz: attempt to impeach Governor Fubara, bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly Chambers, attack on the life of the governor, allegedly by some security agents on October 30, 2023. and other acts of impunity and lawlessness which portend great dangers to the peace and security of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.
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“After an extensive deliberation and consideration of the issues, the forum resolved as follows:
“The forum regretted that neither Governor Fubara nor Chief Wike responded to our letters seeking for audience with each of them.
“The attempt to impeach the Governor of Rivers State barely about six months in office without explaining to the good people of the State, the reasons and infractions of law is unacceptable.
“The Forum condemn every form of violence and lawlessness in Rivers State and therefore, demand proper investigation of the crisis and those responsible be brought to Justice.
“The Forum reviewed the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly by the Rivers State Government and urged the government to expedite action on rebuilding the demolished House of Assembly Complex, so that law makers will continue their legislative business in the permanent site within the shortest possible time.
“The forum condemn in its entirety, the misuse of Rivers people political power vested in politicians by the people for personal gains and interest.
“Hence, we condemn in its entirety, the recent defection of twenty seven law makers without recourse to their constituents.
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“The Forum is aware of and thus rejects, the news making the rounds on social media of forum shopping and purchase of legal instruments outside Rivers State to cause crisis in the state, thereby endangering human lives and property.
“An alleged already written/ premeditated court ruling by one Justice Donatus Okorowo of Federal High Court, Abuja on an ex-parte application secretly filled in the night by pro Wike former lawmakers, which the judge wants to deliver on Monday, where he wants to stop the declaration of their seat vacant (an action that have been done) and also give them the legitimacy to move in with DSS and police to start the illegal impeachment of Gov. Fubara.”
“The foregoing is disturbing and generating serious tension in Rivers State, and thus giving the Forum great concern.
“We, therefore, urge the judiciary and all security agencies to be wary and alive in discharging their responsibilities in order not to worsen the already tensed atmosphere in Rivers State.
“ Finally, the Forum urge President Bola Tinubu, to consolidate on his earlier intervention as the consequences of inaction may not only affect Rivers State, the Niger Delta region and the Federal Government. The Forum owes this solemn truth as a duty to the Federal Government.
