Political Coalition Demands Presidential Action in Rivers State
The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), in collaboration with a coalition of more than 70 civil society organizations, has issued a strong appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. They are urging immediate intervention in the escalating political turmoil in Rivers State, emphasizing that continued presidential inaction could jeopardize national peace and undermine democratic stability across Nigeria.
Press Briefing Highlights Constitutional Concerns
During a joint press briefing held in Abuja, the coalition's statement was delivered by Alhaji Baba Abubakar, Chairman of the Elders Forum of the CNPP. Abubakar called on President Tinubu to transcend partisan politics and take decisive action to uphold constitutional democracy. He stressed the need to protect the electoral mandate granted to the people of Rivers State, framing the situation as a critical test of Nigeria's commitment to governance principles and the separation of powers.
Crisis Viewed as Threat to Democratic Institutions
The coalition articulated that the political conflict in Rivers State does not originate from governance failures or constitutional violations by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Instead, they described it as a strategic effort to seize political control through the manipulation of legislative bodies. The groups warned that this sets a dangerous precedent that, if unaddressed, could erode democratic governance nationwide. They expressed concern that weaponizing state institutions for factional battles poses a significant risk to Nigeria's fragile democratic framework.
Impeachment Threats Deemed Unconstitutional
Despite Governor Fubara's return to office and his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the coalition condemned renewed impeachment threats against him. They maintained that the governor has not committed any offence meeting the constitutional criteria for impeachment under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The statement asserted there is no evidence of gross misconduct or governance breakdown justifying such actions, accusing the Rivers State House of Assembly of being exploited for political conquest rather than serving as a democratic safeguard.
Warning on National Stability and Federalism
The CNPP and civil society organizations cautioned that the ongoing politicization of the legislature in Rivers State could endanger national peace, federalism, and the rule of law. They implored President Tinubu to intervene in a manner that reinforces constitutional order and prevents further escalation of the crisis. Abubakar emphasized the necessity for presidential action to protect democracy and ensure Rivers State does not become a testing ground for unconstitutional political maneuvers.
APC Celebrates Fubara's Defection and Party Unity
In a related development, the All Progressives Congress has welcomed Governor Fubara's defection to the party, reporting that it has bolstered the APC's standing and popularity among Rivers State residents. This follows the completion of delegate congresses and party primaries organized by committees established by the APC National Working Committee ahead of the 21 February House of Assembly by-elections in the state.
Party Officials Express Optimism for Elections
Shehu Dange, Chairman of the Congress and Primary Committee for Ahoada East State Constituency II, stated that Governor Fubara's entry into the APC has further unified the party. He noted positive public reactions and described Fubara as a new leader providing focus and direction. Similarly, Ayoala Peter, Chairman of the Delegate Congress and Party Primary Committee for Khana State Constituency II, highlighted high participation levels as evidence of the APC's strong position for upcoming elections, including the 2027 general elections under Fubara's leadership.
As political tensions persist in Rivers State, pressure continues to mount on President Tinubu to intervene decisively and avert a deepening crisis that threatens democratic norms and national stability.
