- The Ijaw nation opposes any attempt to oust Rivers State Governor by the State House of Assembly
- President-General of the Ijaw National Congress emphasizes commitment to shielding the governor from intimidation or coercion
Amidst the escalating tension between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly, the Ijaw nation has declared its staunch opposition to any move by the lawmakers to oust the governor by any means necessary.
Professor Benjamin Okaba, President-General of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), conveyed this resolve while addressing journalists in Port Harcourt yesterday. He emphasized the Ijaw nation’s commitment to shielding the governor from intimidation or coercion.
Okaba cautioned those advocating for conflict to prioritize peace in the state, underscoring that the Ijaw community closely monitored developments and would react accordingly if the situation deviated from tranquillity.
“As the umbrella operative organization of the Ijaw nation, tasked with safeguarding the socio-political and cultural interests of Ijaw people worldwide, the Ijaw National Congress is deeply troubled by the recent political discord in Rivers State between the legislative and executive arms,” stated Okaba.
“Rumblings and indications are suggesting a move by the Rivers State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against the Governor in case of confrontation. Such actions will be vehemently opposed by the entire Ijaw Nation, spanning across the Niger Delta and beyond. The Ijaw National Congress, therefore, advocates for peace and urges utmost caution,” he continued.
He further asserted, “Our plea for restraint does not stem from weakness but from a position of wisdom and enlightenment. No one can predict the outcome of a lit fire or control its direction in a dry grass lawn.”
While condemning the ethnic undertones of the crisis, Okaba issued a stern warning to Ijaw representatives in the assembly about the repercussions of betraying a fellow Ijaw.
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