Former Rivers lawmakers meet with Fubara, advocate for peace
Former members of the National Assembly from Rivers State have called on the state’s political leaders to uphold the rule of law and prioritise peace over personal interests.
The ex-lawmakers, who served in both the Senate and the House of Representatives at different times, including the 3rd Republic, made this appeal during a media briefing after meeting with Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Port Harcourt.
Bernard Mikko, a former House of Representatives member for Khana/Gokana, read the group’s communique.
He rejected calls for a state of emergency and the attempt to disrespect the constitutional terms of elected council chairmen.
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“Regardless of our political affiliations, we stand united in our unwavering belief and conviction that the unity, peace, and progress of Rivers State are paramount and non-negotiable,” Mikko stated.
“We reaffirm our absolute commitment to the rule of law, a cornerstone of democracy that ensures no one, including the government, is above the law. We uphold this fundamental principle, which safeguards justice, equality, and accountability for all.”
“We emphasize that the tenure of local government councils must be respected in accordance with the constitution.”
Mikko further stated, “We believe that the calls for a state of emergency are unwarranted and have every confidence in the government’s ability to address any challenges that may arise. We trust in their capacity to maintain peace and stability in Rivers State.”
The ex-lawmakers commended Governor Fubara for his efforts in promoting peace and development in the state. “We reject all attempts to undermine the progress of Rivers State for personal gain and urge the people to reject and oppose such efforts.”
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“We commend Governor Sim Fubara’s efforts to promote peace and development and urge all Nigerians to support his initiatives.
We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to support Governor Sim Fubara’s mandate, which has been affirmed by the Supreme Court of the land, without fear, favour, or distraction.”
The former lawmakers emphasized that their stance on the Rivers State political crisis was necessary because the situation threatened the peace and development of the state.
“This is one of those times in the life of our beloved state when silence is no longer golden. We cannot in good conscience continue to play the ostrich when our hard-earned democracy, including the peace and stability of a state that has been built on the blood of heroes, are threatened. We are deeply troubled by the anxiety and hysteria in our state.”
“We recognise that the peace and stability of Rivers State, a vital economic hub of our nation, are under siege,” Mikko concluded.
Those in attendance included Senator John Azuta Mbata, Senator Ngoji Denton West, Honourable Bernard Mikko, Jeffreys Owor, Adokiye Young-Harry, and Daemi Kunaiyi-Akpanah.
Other signatories of the communique, who were not present at the media briefing, included Senators Lee Maeba, Adawari Pepple, Bennett Birabi, and Honourable Austin Opara, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Proofreading, editing by Sakinat Musa Abubakar and Maryam Sulaiman, Journalist and Editor at Neptune Prime
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