In a warning to the people of Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasized that any further violence or attacks could severely threaten the state’s oil production, a crucial lifeline for its economy. His remarks came on a day marked by the formation of a seven-member judicial commission aimed at investigating recent arson incidents linked to political thugs, which saw four local government secretariats set ablaze.
Addressing the situation while swearing in five new commissioners in Port Harcourt, Fubara expressed his unwavering commitment to peace. “As your leader, I assure you that I will not mislead anyone. I stand on the path of peace,” he said. He acknowledged the chaos caused by the recent violence but urged citizens to remain calm, asserting that responding with force would only exacerbate the situation.
“We are carrying a basket of precious eggs in our hands,” he continued, emphasizing the need for careful management of the current crisis. The governor highlighted the precarious nature of oil revenues, stating that the funds generated from oil production were insufficient to meet the nation’s challenges. “Every hand has to be on deck to ensure there is an increase in production,” he urged, noting that unchecked oil theft and vandalism would not only impact Rivers State but could also destabilize the entire economy.
It bears mentioning that in response to the recent violence, the Rivers State government has constituted a judicial commission to investigate the arson and killings that occurred on October 7, 2024. The commission, headed by Justice I.R. Minakiri, includes members from various professional backgrounds, tasked with uncovering the root causes of the violence and identifying those responsible.
Governor Fubara reiterated that his administration would not tolerate the actions of political thugs, assuring that efforts were underway to collaborate with the Nigerian Police Force and the Department of State Services to bring the perpetrators to justice. “We will unravel those behind the assault and ensure they account for their atrocities,” he stated firmly.
It is worth noting that the political atmosphere in Rivers State has grown increasingly tense, with recent accusations directed at Governor Fubara by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. During a televised interview, Wike labeled Fubara as the “main architect” of the ongoing crisis, claiming that the governor’s actions had incited the violence.
Wike criticized Fubara’s approach, advocating for adherence to the rule of law and calling for accountability. He stated, “Obeying the rule of law is the only thing that can bring peace,” and suggested that Fubara’s prior allegations against political opponents indicated a lack of transparency in his governance.
The former governor also indicated his intention to challenge the validity of the newly formed judicial panel, arguing that taxpayer funds should not be used for what he considers an unnecessary inquiry when the governor already knows the alleged culprits.
Read More: Suspected Thugs Set Fire to Eleme LG Headquarters and others in Rivers State
Notably, as tensions continue to escalate, community leaders and religious figures have voiced their concerns over the situation. Methodist Bishop Dr. Sunday Onuoha cautioned that without immediate intervention, the crisis could evolve into a national emergency. He called upon elder statesmen to intervene and discourage those perpetuating instability, stressing the need for truth and accountability to restore peace.
“We must save Rivers State from this crisis to protect Nigeria from political turmoil,” Bishop Onuoha urged, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who fear the repercussions of unchecked violence.
