PORT HARCOURT – As Rivers State prepares for the end of emergency rule and the restoration of full democratic governance, the Rivers Elders Council has urged political leaders to embrace genuine peace for the progress of the state.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Professor Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule are set to resume their constitutional duties.
In a statement on Wednesday, the council’s chairman, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, said this moment offers an opportunity for Rivers people to reflect on past challenges and work toward lasting peace, unity, and development.
The elders warned individuals and groups still “fanning the embers of discord” to desist from inflammatory remarks and allow Governor Fubara and the Assembly to work together without distractions.
They commended both Fubara and the Assembly leadership for reconciling their differences and reaffirming their commitment to peace before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, stressing that the vow “remains sacrosanct.”
The council also praised the people of Rivers State for their patience during the crisis and thanked President Tinubu for his swift intervention, which they said averted disaster.
Special recognition was given to former Governor and current FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, for his role in midwifing the reconciliation process and ensuring both parties presented their resolution to the President.
“Mr. President, we appreciate you and assure you that you have already captured the hearts of the people of Rivers State. As your administration continues to pursue the Renewed Hope Agenda, you can count on our support at all times,” the statement added.
