The Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum has called for the immediate lifting of the state of emergency imposed on Rivers State, following the recent reconciliation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking at a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Thursday, the Forum described the political crisis that rocked the state over the past few months as a “sad development that deeply wounded the soul of our dear state and cast an undeserved shadow on our collective image, unity, progress, and prosperity.”
While expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for intervening in the crisis, the elders commended both leaders for what they described as a “show of maturity and courage” in embracing peace.
“This was exactly what we, the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, had earnestly sought from the very beginning,” said Acting Chairman of the Forum, Alabo Dr Gabriel Toby. “Unfortunately, our initial efforts were not heeded, which necessitated our formal appeal to Mr President.”
The Forum also stressed that its involvement was driven solely by the desire to protect the soul and dignity of Rivers State.
“We seek no personal gain, political favour, or reward. Our sole desire is to see our state thrive, with its leaders united and working together for the common good of all,” Dr Toby stated.
Though the terms of the reconciliation are yet to be made public, the elders expressed hope that the process is anchored within the 1999 Constitution and in full compliance with the rule of law.
With peace now restored, the Forum urged authorities to reinstate all suspended democratic structures.
“It is our considered view that the State of Emergency imposed on Rivers State be lifted and all suspended democratic structures fully restored,” the statement emphasized.
The elders also called on Rivers citizens to embrace this season of peace as a new beginning marked by unity and shared purpose.
