As a body that represents the interests of the South-South citizens, PANDEF reaffirmed its dedication to pursuing peace and stability in the region. The forum aims to foster constructive dialogue with the Federal Government to address the situation in Rivers State.
Many Nigerian states, particularly in the North East, North West and North Central geopolitical zones live with daily assaults on their very existence. Yet, no state of emergency has been declared!
โTo reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the Rescission of the State of Emergency,”
It is also worth noting that the Constitution outlines specific procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as detailed in Section 188, and similar provisions exist for the removal of members of the House of Assembly and the dissolution of parliament. In the current situation, it appears that these guidelines might not have been fully considered.
โI want to sincerely appreciate my colleague commissioner, Honourable Commissioner for Tourism Hon. John Alah, Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties (West) Hon. Michael Magbisa, Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources Hon. Prof. Beke Sese, Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Hon. Dr. Ebieri Jones, and Honourable Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, Hon. Chief Godspower Oporomo,โ
“Anyone who underestimates the fury of the Ijaw people is a fool. Whether Wike was under the influence of hard drugs or alcohol, it is said that โout of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.”
As insecurity spreads across regions, dialogues of this nature become essential in fostering peace and ensuring the safety of our communities. The Deputy Governor’s initiative to bring together traditional rulers and community leaders reflects a commitment to collaborative governance and to remedying the challenges posed by external threats.
“Mr. President,” Ambassador Igali urged, “we implore you to prevail upon the Honourable Minister to extend due respect to these eminent Nigerians and traditional rulers who were esteemed guests of the Commander-in-Chief. The Minister does not own the Niger Delta, and his conduct should not be condoned.”
PANDEF hereby calls upon Mr. President, as the father of the nation, to prevail upon the Honourable Minister to retract his inflammatory statements and extend due respect to these eminent Nigerians and traditional rulers who were, after all, esteemed guests of the Commander-in-Chief. It is apt to remind that the Minister does not own the Niger-Delta and his errant conduct should not be condoned.
“We are concerned that the clash of venues for the planned events by the two opposing groups, if not addressed, may cause a possible breach of peace and order in the area. This could potentially threaten the existing peace in Abalama Community and the rest of Kalabari land. The Traditional Rulers of the Kalabari Ethnic Nationality therefore appeal to both parties to relocate their events elsewhere, possibly outside Kalabari land, to avert a possible violent clash in the area”.
