...Cautions detractors against destabilising Nigeria’s strategic economic hub
One-time National Assembly members from Rivers State have warned all those who are busy plotting how to destabilise the State to desist forthwith.
They have equally resolved to throw their weight solidly behind the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Ex Rivers lawmakers at the National Assembly seen in a group picture with Governor Siminalayi Fubara after a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Some former members of the National Assembly led by Senator John Azuta Mbata addressing the press after they visited the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara at Government House, Port Harcourt, to pledge support for his administration.
Speaking to journalists after a courtesy visit to Governor Fubara, members of the Caucus of former National Assembly drawn from Rivers State urged the Nigerian people to support Governor Fubara, describing him as the one who holds the mandate of the Rivers electorate.
The former lawmakers said they were deeply troubled by the anxiety and hysteria generated in the wake of the political crisis, saying that peace and stability in the State is under siege.
The former lawmakers described the Rivers State as a “vital economic hub in Nigeria”, and rejected attempts that are being made to undermine its unity and progress under whatever guise.
Members of the delegation led by Senator John Azuta Mbata disclosed their position when they addressed newsmen as part of their solidarity visit to Governor Siminalayi Fubara at Government House in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
Speaking on behalf of the former national lawmakers, Hon. Bernard Mikko, said they were compelled to speak out against the apprehension and uncertainty that have enveloped Rivers State because it is one of those times when silence is no longer golden.
He stated: “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.
“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.”
Hon. Mikko emphasised that the tenure of elected local government council officials must always be respected in accordance with the Constitution, and condemned attempts by some desperate politicians to elongate their tenure in crass violation of the Constitution.
He also dismissed calls by disgruntled members of the political class for a State of Emergency to be declared in Rivers, saying that it is unwarranted.
He explained: “We trust in the capacity of the Governor to maintain peace and stability in Rivers 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.
“We commend Governor Siminalayi 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 Siminalayi Fubara’s mandate, which has been affirmed by the Supreme Court of the land, without fear, favour, or distraction.”
The former National Assembly members restated their unwavering commitment and determination to mobilise resources and moral support for the Governor and his administration.
They warned detractors struggling to frustrate and undermine the government to retrace their steps, as God and majority of the people were solidly behind the “Rivers People First” mandate.
The delegation included more than 17 former Senators and members of the House of Representatives drawn from the Third and Fourth Republics, including ex-officers of the National Assembly from the three Senatorial Districts and Federal Constituencies in the State.