A prominent Rivers State elder and political stakeholder, Elder Boma D. Anga, JP, has raised the alarm over the deepening political crisis in Rivers State, describing it as a ticking timebomb that requires urgent intervention grounded in the rule of law.
Speaking against the backdrop of the ongoing tensions between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Elder Anga lamented the erosion of democratic principles in the state, warning that unless critical steps are taken, Rivers could face further chaos and instability.
He criticised the political rivalry between Fubara and Wike, accusing both men of treating the state like a chessboard for personal interests without regard for the welfare and development of the Rivers people.
“The threats, risks, and uncertainties confronting the state are mounting. What we are witnessing are happenings leading to chaos and unimaginable self-serving conflict,” Anga said.
Elder Anga also questioned the constitutionality of recent moves in the state, likening the situation to an imposition of military rule under a democracy.
He alleged that the foundation of the crisis lies in the “constructed illegalities” that led to the imposition of Siminalayi Fubara as governor, claiming that the proper legal process was bypassed during the primaries.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to revisit the unresolved legal issues surrounding the Rivers State governorship election. In particular, he urged the authorities to give attention to the pending case at the Supreme Court involving Barrister Abbie Atedoghu, who he described as the rightful candidate.
“The government must uproot the illegalities that produced the current governor. The matter should be given a fair hearing within the framework of the 1999 Constitution,” he stated.
He however insisting that Barrister Abbie Atedoghu, having challenged the process through the courts, deserves justice.
Highlighting Atedoghu’s political pedigree, Elder Anga noted that she is a seasoned politician, having served as a member of the House of Representatives in 1998 and contested for the governorship position three times. He described her as a person of capacity, intelligence, and deep understanding of Rivers State’s political landscape.
He further warned that any attempt to force a political reconciliation between Wike and Fubara would be counterproductive.
“Politics does not make friends out of enemies. The animosity between the two has planted long-term damage that would leave Rivers State bleeding perpetually if not properly addressed,” he said.
Elder Anga emphasised that what Rivers State urgently needs is legitimate peace founded on justice, and not political compromises that serve personal interests.
“Mr. President must help Rivers people embrace the option of a legitimate governor while encouraging the two political gladiators to settle their personal grievances elsewhere,” he concluded.
