By: Queen Williams
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has vehemently condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a provocative and unacceptable move.
Speaking at the Ijaw Nation Emergency Stakeholders Congress held at Ijaw House, Yenagoa, IYC President, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, outlined the council’s stance on the issue. “The position of the Ijaw people regarding the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State is clear. This action is highly provocative and unacceptable. Our demand remains that the Governor of Rivers State, Gov. Sim Fubara, must be reinstated to his office within three months.”
Lokpobiri also expressed concerns over an alleged plot to remove the Chief Judge of Rivers State before the expiration of the state of emergency. “We have received intelligence reports indicating a plot to remove the Chief Judge of Rivers State before the expiration of the State of Emergency. This appears to be a prelude to further impeachment attempts. Such actions are unacceptable. The appointed Sole Administrator should confine himself strictly to the payment of civil servants’ salaries and must not interfere in political matters.”
Furthermore, Lokpobiri called on President Tinubu to restrain the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his utterances against the Ijaw Nation. “The Ijaw Nation is not in conflict with the Federal Government, Mr. President, or the people of Ikwerre. However, we strongly call on Mr. President to rein in the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory over his misguided utterances against the Ijaw Nation.”
In conclusion, Lokpobiri reaffirmed the Ijaw Nation’s commitment to justice and stability, urging the Federal Government to address these concerns in the interest of peace and democracy.
