The Ijaw Youth Council and the Ijaw National Congress have warned that the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara will lead to the shutdown of Niger Delta oil operations. They stress the need for federal intervention to avert political instability, emphasizing the critical role of the state in the national economy. Additionally, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission announced a stakeholders’ meeting in preparation for the 2025 Local Council Elections.
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) have voiced serious concerns regarding the political turmoil in Rivers State, issuing a stark warning that the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara would lead to the shutdown of oil operations in the Niger Delta. This warning stems from a recent ultimatum by the Martins Amawhule-led House of Assembly for the governor to present the 2025 budget, which is perceived as part of a coordinated effort to destabilize the state.
The ultimatum, originating from a ruling by the Supreme Court, demands action within 48 hours and has raised alarms about potential political instability. The IYC, represented by Chairman Prince Datolu Sukubo and Secretary Tamunokuro Dango, has called for intervention from President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu to avert any escalation.
The IYC has highlighted that instability in Rivers State could have dire implications for governance and Nigeria’s energy security, given the state’s critical role in the economy. They pronounced: “If Rivers State is starved of its economic rights because of one who wants to monopolize the state’s economy, we will also starve the economy of Nigeria.”
In a separate statement, the INC has also condemned plans for Fubara’s impeachment, asserting that such actions would incite instability in the oil-rich Niger Delta. INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, criticized the Supreme Court’s decision, claiming it disregarded the historical significance and contributions of the Ijaw people to the governance of Rivers State.
Additionally, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) is organizing a stakeholders’ meeting to prepare for the 2025 Local Council Elections, scheduled for March 5, 2025. This meeting will convene political leaders, traditional authorities, security entities, and media representatives to outline the election timetable and regulations.
In conclusion, the Ijaw Youth Council and the Ijaw National Congress have expressed strong opposition to the impeachment of Governor Fubara, citing it as a catalyst for potential instability within Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region. They implore federal intervention to prevent economic fallout, emphasizing the importance of the region’s oil production to the national economy. The response from local political bodies highlights a need for careful navigation of these tense political dynamics as the state prepares for upcoming elections.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
