Rivers Crisis: Ijaw Congress Warns Against Fubara’s Impeachment, Cautions FG on Niger Delta Stability
Tensions continue to rise in Rivers State as the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has issued a stern warning over the ongoing political crisis, particularly the alleged moves to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The group has condemned the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the state’s political affairs, describing it as a threat to stability in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
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In a statement released in Port Harcourt on Monday, INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, criticized the judgment, arguing that it failed to recognize the historical and political contributions of the Ijaw people in Rivers State’s governance. He warned that any attempt to undermine Governor Fubara could have severe consequences for national peace and economic stability, given the region’s significance to Nigeria’s oil production.
Historical Context of Ijaw Contributions
Prof. Okaba traced the historical role of Ijaw leaders in shaping the political landscape of Rivers State, recalling key political events dating back to 1999. He noted that Chief Marshall Harry played a pivotal role in securing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for Dr. Peter Odili, despite strong opposition. Furthermore, he cited the sacrifices made by Ijaw leaders in subsequent elections, including the assassination of Marshall Harry in 2003 and the violent political struggles that followed in later years.
According to the INC, despite these sacrifices, an Ikwerre political elite is now attempting to frustrate the tenure of Governor Fubara, who is the first riverine governor in decades. The group expressed its determination to resist any such move, vowing to defend Fubara’s position “with every pint of blood in their veins.”
Warning to the Federal Government
The INC also took aim at the Federal Government, cautioning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against treating the Rivers crisis as mere political infighting. Prof. Okaba warned that the continued marginalization of Ijaws, not just in Rivers but also in Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states, could destabilize the Niger Delta region. He reminded the government that Ijaw leaders have played a crucial role in maintaining peace, which has allowed for steady oil production and revenue generation.
“The same resources that the Niger Delta provides are now being used to oppress us. If Governor Fubara’s tenure is truncated by the Amaewhule-led Assembly or any external influence, the INC cannot guarantee the sustenance of the current peace in the region,” Okaba stated, hinting at potential disruptions to oil production.
A Looming Political Showdown
With the INC’s strong stance, political observers warn that Rivers State could become a flashpoint for larger conflicts if urgent steps are not taken to de-escalate the situation. The crisis has drawn national attention, with stakeholders calling on President Tinubu and other influential leaders to intervene before the state descends into chaos.
As the battle for control of Rivers State intensifies, the Ijaw National Congress has drawn a clear line in the sand. The group insists that any further attempt to sideline Governor Fubara will come at a heavy cost, potentially shaking the stability of Nigeria’s most crucial oil-producing region.
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