Jonathan sues for peace in Rivers
By Innocent Raphael
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for a truce in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, urging the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to collaborate for the benefit of the state.
Jonathan made this appeal on Monday during the unveiling of the Trans-Kalabari Road project in Rivers State.
He emphasized the detrimental effects of continuous conflicts between governors and their predecessors, which have become increasingly common in Nigeria.
“Outgoing governors and incoming governors must know that they work together for the collective interest of the citizens of the state, and that is critical,” Jonathan said.
He specifically addressed the situation in Rivers State, stating, “In the case of Rivers, Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara must work together to develop the land and people of Rivers State. The tension will not help us.”
Jonathan urged all political actors to cooperate, emphasizing, “If you love the Rivers people, you must work together. I join the leaders of Rivers State and well-meaning Nigerians in calling for a truce and ceasefire.”
He added, “We call on them [Wike and Fubara] to embrace themselves. One hand does not clap. It takes two hands to clap. So, we want them to work together for the collective interest.”
Jonathan also noted the broader issue of contentious transitions in Nigerian politics, highlighting that while presidential transitions at the national level have their challenges, state-level transitions have become particularly problematic.
The backdrop to Jonathan’s call for peace includes a long-standing feud between Wike and Fubara, with President Bola Tinubu previously intervening to reduce the rising tensions.
Recently, five pro-Wike commissioners resigned, citing a hostile working environment, following the earlier resignation of four others.
In response, Fubara moved the state assembly to a wing in the government house to prevent any potential impeachment efforts by lawmakers loyal to Wike.
