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Rivers State Crisis: Fubara Raises Alarm Over Tinubu’s Focus Amid Violence

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 8th, 2024.

Rivers State Crisis: Fubara Raises Alarm Over Tinubu’s Focus Amid Violence

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has expressed concern regarding President Bola Tinubu’s decision to single him out in comments about the recent violence and destruction of local government secretariats in the state.

During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Fubara addressed the ongoing conflict with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, which has persisted for over a year.

The turmoil erupted in several local government areas, with political thugs setting fire to buildings in Eleme, Ikwerre, and Emohua, while sporadic gunfire was reported in Ahoada East as they resisted the newly elected council officials.

The chaos followed the withdrawal of police security from the 23 council secretariats earlier that day. Despite the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the police boycotting the recent elections, Fubara maintained that the elections should proceed as scheduled on Saturday.

In the election, the Action People’s Party (APP) claimed 22 of the 23 chairmanship positions, while the Action Alliance (AA) secured one. Fubara swiftly swore in the newly elected chairmen on Sunday, but some faced attacks as they took office the following day.

Later that evening, Tinubu, through his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, directed police to ensure the security of the local government secretariats and urged Fubara and local political leaders to maintain order and respect the rule of law.

In response to Tinubu’s remarks, Fubara said, “I don’t have an issue with the President’s intervention, but I am concerned that only my name was mentioned. The situation is clear to everyone in Nigeria and Rivers State; it’s not just about me.”

He expressed hope that the Inspector General of Police’s recent intervention would provide some relief, noting that the withdrawal of police officers might have emboldened the attackers. Fubara emphasized the need for police presence to protect the elected officials as they carry out their duties, stating, “I never believed the police should withdraw completely. Their absence allowed these miscreants to exploit the situation and wreak havoc.”