Politics

Rivers elders welcome peace but urge respect for law, constitution

The reconciliation that just took place in Rivers State has received a big boost as elders and leaders of the state have commended the effort.

Details:

Elders and leaders of thought in Rivers State have welcomed the reconciliation that has just taken place between the Sim Fubara and the Nyesom Wike camps.

Addressing newsmen Thursday, July 3, 2025, the forum said reconciliation was what they stood for all through the period of conflict, saying that was why they invited both parties to a peace table, it was not possible.

The press statement signed by Sir Gabriel Toby, onetime deputy governor (during Dr Peter Odili time), said they had to appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take over the peace process.

Most supporters of Gov Fubara have rejected the reconciliation which they said was pure humiliation of the suspended governor, especially as they observed that no single member of his camp was represented at the negotiation table.

The elders and leaders however described the just ended crisis as a sad development that deeply wounded the soul of the state and cast an undeserved shadow on their collective image, unity, progress, and prosperity.

Today, the statement said, “We thank God Almighty and commend the recent show of maturity, and courage demonstrated by both men in embracing peace and reconciliation process.”

They said this was exactly what they had earnestly sought from the very beginning, when they first extended an olive branch and invited both parties to a roundtable.

“Unfortunately, our initial efforts were not heeded, which necessitated our formal appeal to President Tinubu to intervene as the father of the nation.

“For the record, we reaffirm that our only interest has always been to safeguard the image, soul, and dignity of Rivers State. We seek no personal gain, political favour, or reward. Our sole desire is to see our state thrive, with its leaders united and working together for the common good of all.”

The forum however said while they welcome and commend this process, that they have chosen not to delve any further into
the subject, because the terms of settlement were yet to be made public. “However, it is our hope that the terms of reconciliation are well rooted within the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, and the rule of law.”

Thanking all the parties especially the president, the forum request that since peace and reconciliation have been achieved, “It is our considered view that the State of Emergency imposed on Rivers State be lifted and all suspended democratic structures fully restored.

“The will of Rivers people should be respected, and the institutions of democratic governance must be allowed to function freely and transparently.”

They urged everyone in Rivers State to seize this moment of reconciliation not as the end of disagreements, but as the beginning of a new chapter, marked by mutual respect, collective responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the peace, progress and unity of our dear State.

“Let Rivers State rise again in pride, and purpose. Let us never forget that our strength lies in our unity, shared heritage and destiny.

May God continue to bless Rivers State and guide all her leaders aright.”

Leave feedback about this

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Service

PROS

+
Add Field

CONS

+
Add Field
Choose Image
Choose Video