The South-South Youths Initiative has voiced worry about President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of an emergency in Rivers State, calling it an act of injustice and bias.
The organisation condemned the decision to suspend Governor Siminialayi Fubara and his deputy while allowing the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to stay in office, despite his apparent role in the political turmoil.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Imeabe Saviour Oscar, the group claimed that the president’s actions looked to benefit Wike, a crucial character in the ongoing political turmoil.
The statement emphasised that suspending the democratically elected executive branch of the state and appointing a single administrator weakens democracy and raises issues about fairness.
The young organisation advocated for a balanced approach, highlighting the necessity for the president to guarantee that all parties’ interests are considered.
They stated that the political issue is mostly about a conflict between Governor Fubara and Wike, with the Martin Amaewhule-led State House of Assembly allegedly acting on Wike’s orders. The group encouraged the president to suspend Wike as an example of fairness.
The South-South Youths Initiative also urged the National Assembly to reject the state of emergency in Rivers State, warning that it would establish a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
They raised worry that such measures have not been implemented in northern states confronting serious security difficulties, such as banditry and the Boko Haram insurgency.
Despite their frustrations, the organisation urged citizens of Rivers State to remain calm as the scenario unfolded. They reaffirmed their commitment to democracy and development in the region, underlining the importance of fairness and justice in resolving the current deadlock.
The statement read, “We believe the president could have adopted a different approach to resolving the political crisis in the state rather than suspending the democratically elected executive for six months and appointing a sole administrator.
“It is evident that the political struggle in Rivers State is primarily between Governor Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike. The Martin Amaewhule-led State House of Assembly is reportedly carrying out directives related to this conflict.
“If this is established, it raises concerns about allowing Wike to remain in office while others are suspended, suggesting a lack of balance in addressing the situation.
“In the interest of fairness, equity, justice, and fair play, we call on President Tinubu to consider suspending the FCT Minister. This could help clarify the intentions behind his declaration.
“As a people, we have prayed that nothing would undermine democracy in this country, even as it faces challenges.
“If such measures are deemed necessary, we ask why similar actions were not taken in northern states where bandits, Boko Haram, and other groups are causing widespread suffering.
“Despite their grievances, the South-South Youths Initiative calls for calm, urging residents of Rivers State to maintain peace as the state navigates this difficult period.”
