President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for strict adherence to the rule of law as a means to restore peace and stability in Rivers State. Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with political leaders from the South-South under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the President emphasized the need for all stakeholders to respect judicial decisions.
He noted that the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State had lingered for too long and urged all concerned parties to abide by the constitution.
“This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I should not be here as President without a rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. Human beings can make errors, but once the court has spoken, that is it,” Tinubu stated.
The President also urged the leaders to privately and publicly counsel the Rivers State governor to ensure a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
“I have been on the issue for quite some time. I foresaw the crisis festering before I intervened. We reached an agreement, a written agreement, and both parties signed. Now, please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time,” he said.
Tinubu reassured the Niger Delta leaders that his administration remains committed to the development of the region, acknowledging its economic significance as the “goose that lays the golden egg.”
He highlighted ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth, including the coastal road project and plans to develop ports in the region in collaboration with international companies.
“We cannot achieve Eldorado in one day, but we are on the path to it. We will succeed by the grace of God Almighty. We are resetting the economy, and it looks far better,” Tinubu added.
PANDEF Seeks More Federal Intervention
Speaking on behalf of PANDEF, King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, commended the President for his commitment to the South-South region.
“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support,” Diete-Spiff said.
Former Akwa Ibom Governor, Obong Victor Attah, who also chairs PANDEF’s reconciliation committee for Rivers State, expressed concerns about the crisis, warning that its implications extend beyond the state.
“Instability there has far-reaching consequences on the peace and stability of the nation,” Attah noted.
He also called on the federal government to focus on infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism to enhance economic growth in the South-South region.
The PANDEF delegation included former governors, legislators, ministers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and representatives of youth and women groups.
Tinubu’s Pledge to Niger Delta
Reiterating his commitment to the region, President Tinubu praised the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), particularly its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for driving development initiatives.
“He is your son. We are all proud of him. Yes, there are many misadventurers around Nigeria on democracy. We will continue to work on preserving the integrity and character of our legislators,” the President said.
The meeting ended with assurances from the federal government to support peace efforts in Rivers State and sustain economic reforms that will benefit the Niger Delta and the country at large.
