- Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan raised an alarm over the escalating political conflict in Rivers State, calling for immediate federal intervention
- Underlining national security, the senator urged President Tinubu to take decisive action to address the tensions between key political figures
- She added that the ongoing discord threatens not just Rivers State but also the stability and democratic progress of Nigeria as a whole
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed grave concerns about the escalating crisis in Rivers State, urging President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to resolve the deepening conflict between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
The senator's statement, delivered through her media aide Israel Arogbonlo, highlights the urgent need for federal intervention in a situation that she argues could have dire consequences for national security.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan who represents Kogi central senatorial district, underscored the importance of President Tinubu's leadership in addressing the crisis, which violence, intimidation, and allegations of electoral malpractices have reportedly characterized.
She emphasised that the ongoing discord not only threatens the stability of Rivers State but could also have broader implications for peace across Nigeria.
"The situation in Rivers demands urgent attention," the senator stated.
"I implore Mr. President to take decisive action to prevent further escalation. We cannot afford to watch as the crisis deepens, threatening the region's stability."
The conflict has intensified as tensions rise between the two political figures, with accusations flying over governance and electoral integrity.
Akpoti-Uduaghan's remarks point to a troubling pattern of instability that could embolden violent actors and lead to a breakdown of law and order. She noted that the political environment in Rivers has become increasingly hostile, creating a breeding ground for unrest.
"The ongoing crisis is not just a local issue; it poses a serious threat to the peace and stability of the entire nation,"
"If left unchecked, it may undermine Nigeria’s democratic progress and threaten national securit,” she warned.
Central to the senator's concerns is the need to maintain the neutrality of state institutions amidst the political turmoil. She called for the federal government to ensure that the minister focuses on his responsibilities in the Federal Capital Territory, allowing Governor Fubara to govern Rivers State as mandated by the constitution.
This separation of duties, Akpoti-Uduaghan argues, is essential to restoring order and confidence in the democratic process.
She further urged President Tinubu to prioritise the situation, asserting that his leadership is crucial in resolving the impasse.
The senator's call for intervention reflects a broader concern among many Nigerians who fear that unchecked political strife could lead to a further erosion of stability in the country.
As the crisis continues to unfold, all eyes are on President Tinubu and his administration to take the necessary steps to defuse tensions in Rivers State, restore peace, and safeguard the democratic foundations of Nigeria.
The implications of inaction could resonate far beyond the borders of Rivers, potentially compromising national security and the well-being of citizens across the nation.
Governor Fubara, others chase police away from RISIEC office
Earlier, TheRadar reported that in a dramatic turn of events early Friday morning, armed police officers deployed at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC) office were chased away by a large crowd, as tensions mount ahead of the controversial local government elections scheduled for Saturday.
The incident occurred around 1 AM, with reports indicating that it remains unclear who ordered the police presence at the facility.
