The Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action regarding the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, expressing concern over his ongoing silence on the matter. In an open letter dated Wednesday, Chief Ambrose Kii, the President of the organization, underscored the urgency of the situation, urging the President to rein in the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Kii’s letter paints a grim picture of the current state of affairs in Rivers, accusing Wike of undermining the authority of Governor Siminalayi Fubara for personal gain. “The consequences of your silence are dire,” Kii stated, warning that Wike’s actions have not only destabilized the state but have also heightened violence and insecurity, disrupted economic activities, and driven potential investors away.
“The situation has exacerbated unemployment and redundancy, inflicting untold hardship on the citizens of Rivers State,” he added, emphasizing the urgent need for federal intervention.
Kii further contrasted Wike’s approach with the governance styles of former governors like Dr. Peter Odili, Celestine Omehia, and Rotimi Amaechi, who are remembered for their ability to maintain peace and allow their successors to operate without interference. “Chief Wike’s quest for control has brought Rivers State to its knees,” he lamented, calling for a return to collaborative governance.
In light of the ongoing turmoil, the Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation has laid out specific demands for President Tinubu’s administration:
- Immediate intervention to restore law and order in Rivers State.
- A thorough investigation into allegations of violence and property destruction.
- Accountability for those responsible for the current crisis.
- The establishment of a federal craft center aimed at boosting skills development among Ogoni youths.
- A probe into an alleged $300 million fund from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) intended for Ogoni development.
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Kii’s plea culminated in a powerful message: “The Ogoni people and all Rivers State citizens demand peace, stability, and good governance. We expect your prompt action to address this crisis. Your leadership can shape Nigeria’s future, and we implore you to act decisively.”
