A political Pressure Group, Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence has raised concerns over deliberate moves to undermine democratic processes, principles of justice and rule of law in the governance of Rivers State.
FCT Coordinator of the group, Mark Okpanachi Ogah, took a swipe at Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who recently signed the N1.188 trillion Rivers State 2025 budget into law, purportedly submitted on December 30, 2024, by a three-member Assembly led by Victor Oko-Jumbo, saying the action is a gross violation of court judgment that recognised Martin Amaewhule as the legitimate speaker of the State Assembly
“Martin Amaewhule and 26 other members of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Nyesom Wike form part of his political structure. Not recognizing them, as directed by the court rulings, is totally unacceptable and unfortunate”, Ogah said
They group wants governor Fubara not to forget in a hurry the vital role played by Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister, who used his political structure to ensure the successful election of the incumbent Governor, noting that it is disheartening that Governor Fubara has chosen to betray his benefactor by attempting to dismantle the political structure built by Wike.
The Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence among other things is calling for the Immediate withdrawal of the 2025 Rivers budget and urged the governor to ensure that it is properly presented and passed under the legitimate leadership of Speaker Martin Amaewhule.
It also urges the State government under Governor Fubara to respect judicial rulings and uphold the constitution to restore public confidence in his administration, while stressing the need for all parties to abide and respect the political solutions proffered by President Bola Tinubu in genuine efforts to resolve the political impasse in Rivers State.
“In a democracy, no leader is above the law. Governance must be based on legality, the principle of separation of powers, and transparency. Governor Fubara must realign his actions to reflect these principles for the good of Rivers State and its people”, the group adds.
The Arewa Youths for Peaceful Coexistence says it remains steadfast in promoting peace, justice and unity in Nigeria, urging Governor Fubara to prioritise the rule of law and reconciliation to preserve democracy and ensure sustainable development in Rivers State.
The group thanks President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his genuine intervention in the Peaceful resolution of the Rivers political conflict. It also commended the President for endorsing the legislative framework that enabled the creation of the North Central Development Commission
