The All-Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara to end his legal battles. In a statement signed by Ikenga Chibike, the APC urged the governor to prioritize peaceful dialogue with the Assembly. The APC stressed that seeking court rulings to nullify the election of Assembly members is unproductive.
Several court rulings, including those by Justice James Omotosho and Justice Gbassam, have upheld the legitimacy of the Assembly members. The court decisions affirmed that the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, and 25 others remain validly elected. Despite these rulings, Gov. Fubara has continued pursuing legal actions to declare their seats vacant. The APC criticized the governor’s focus on court battles, calling it a “wild goose chase” that stalls the state’s progress.
The APC expressed concerns about how this legal conflict distracts from governance. The party stated that development has taken a back seat while crisis merchants exploit the situation. The APC accused several individuals of profiting from the discord between the executive and legislative branches. These individuals include Ugochinyere Imo, Dan Anyanwu, Pa Edwin Clark, and Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.
The APC alleged that these figures benefit from press conferences and media engagements to show support for Gov. Fubara. The party warned that these crisis merchants are deepening divisions in Rivers State. According to the APC, the state’s development continues to suffer as the governor focuses on unnecessary legal battles.
The APC also criticized Gov. Fubara for ignoring the Presidential Proclamation for Peace by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The proclamation was meant to resolve the conflict between the executive and legislative branches. However, the governor allegedly rejected the initiative, deeming it unconstitutional for the president to intervene.
The APC also condemned Gov. Fubara’s decision to proceed with local government elections against a valid court ruling. The party described this as “impunity taken too far,” warning that the elections would waste state resources. The APC emphasized that Gov. Fubara’s disregard for court orders damages governance and the legal framework in Rivers State.
The party urged the governor to prioritize peace, unity, and development. The APC warned that failure to resolve the conflict could lead to further chaos in the state. The APC concluded by stressing the need for law, order, and structured development in Rivers State.
Ikenga Chibike
Publicity Secretary
For and on behalf of the Caretaker Committee, All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers State
Friday, September 20, 2024
