The South-South Youths Initiative has issued a strong condemnation of Tony Okocha, the factional chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, over what they described as “inflammatory statements” targeting the suspended Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Okocha is alleged to have publicly declared that the “sin” of Fubara cannot be forgiven and that the APC in Rivers State, under his leadership, is not willing to accept the governor back into the party. The statement has drawn widespread criticism from political stakeholders and youth groups in the region.
In a recent interview with Today FM, the National President of the South-South Youths Initiative, Imedobe Saviour-Oscar, accused Okocha of deliberately sabotaging peace efforts in Rivers State. Saviour-Oscar alleged that Okocha has refused to support reconciliation initiatives because of personal gains linked to the ongoing political crisis.
Saviour-Oscar further claimed that Okocha’s appointment as the Rivers State representative of the Nigeria Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and his position as factional APC State Chairman are directly tied to the turmoil in Rivers politics. He asserted that Okocha’s actions are motivated by fear of losing his current influence if peace efforts succeed.
While condemning what he described as Okocha’s prioritization of personal interests over the welfare of Rivers citizens, Saviour-Oscar called for the immediate resignation of Tony Okocha from all his current political positions. He also demanded a thorough investigation into Okocha’s activities within the NDDC board, questioning the transparency and accountability of his leadership.
The controversy adds to the mounting tensions in Rivers State, where political factions remain at odds following the suspension of Governor Fubara. Stakeholders warn that such inflammatory statements could further deepen divisions and hinder efforts towards peace and reconciliation in the state.
As calls for accountability grow louder, many are urging relevant authorities to investigate the actions of Tony Okocha and ensure that political conflicts do not undermine the stability and development of Rivers State.
