From Peter Ejiofor
The Coalition of Rivers State Leaders of Thought has commended President Bola Tinubu for his mediatory role in quelling the recent political crisis in the state.
The group gave the commendation in a statement by its Convener, Chief Sunnie Chukumele and Mr Josiah Onoriode, the Secretary on Tuesday.
In the statement, the group said it observed with very keen interest and worry about the ugly political developments and trends since Oct. 30.
It said President Tinubu, being a smart thinker, might have bothered about the security implications of a possible conflagration in the South-South region, which might affect the oil sector and Nigeria’s economy.
Meanwhile, the coalition frowned at the roles of a section of PDP elders in the state.
The elders allegedly took sides with Mr Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister, while “wantonly vilifying’’ Gov. Siminalayi Fubara.
“We would have thought that as elders, they would not take sides. That they will play conciliatory roles between them,” it stated.
It urged the state government to create a Council of Elders. This will assist in checking any issue of abuse by some elders.
Such councils, the group said, should have members who must be men and women of proven pedigree and integrity.
Read Related News:
Ministerial screening: Senate clears Wike, others
Oil bunkering: Army arrest 12 suspects in P/Harcourt
Wike declares public holiday to honour visiting Tinubu
The group also advised Wike to abide by his pledge not to meddle in the state governance.
This, it stated, is necessary in order to give his successor room to discharge his duties.
The ‘Leaders of Thought’ also commended the Niger Delta Elders who recently paid a conciliatory visit to the FCT Minister.
“This is the right way to go,” it stated.
It urged people to be on alert against anything that may cause ethnic and tribal division in the state.
“If we allow such, its consequences will be deafening. Rivers State at a time like this, needs more citizens and statesmen, and not tribesmen.”
The group called on the first military governor, King Diette Spiff and former President, Goodluck Jonathan, to wade into the matter to ensure peace in the state.
It also called on the Inspector General of Police to investigate the suspected complicities of his men regarding their roles in the imbroglio in the state.
Do you have a flair for Citizenship Journalism? Share story(ies) of happenings in your area with The NewsZenith on WhatsApp: 08033668669 or thenewszenith@gmail.com
