Prince Uche Secondus, the former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, along with the members of the PDP Rivers State Presidential Campaign Council, have pledged their allegiance to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
During a news briefing in Port Harcourt, the campaign council criticized the actions of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for instigating a crisis in River State and advised President Tinubu to keep a close eye on him.
Dr Abiye Sekibo, the Director General of the former Rivers State PDP-PCC and former Minister of Transport, conveyed this stance on behalf of the former council.
They emphasized their support for both Tinubu and Fubara, following the conclusion of the general elections and the Supreme Court’s confirmation of the winners, indicating their commitment to governance and progress for the country and Rivers State.
The situation arises amidst the discord between Fubara and his former political mentor, Wike.
Fubara narrowly escaped an impeachment attempt by pro-Wike legislators last October.
The campaign council adds to the numerous groups taking sides and expressing solidarity with Fubara against Wike.
Sekibo stated, “Following a meeting of the former Rivers State PDP Presidential Campaign Council leadership and PDP members in Rivers State, we reaffirm our support for the elected President of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and our Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
“With the elections concluded and the Supreme Court’s verdict finalized, we abide by the decision and advocate for effective governance under Tinubu and Fubara to advance our nation and state.
“We endorse the Renewed Hope Agenda and President’s initiatives aimed at bolstering our economy, fostering peace, and unity in Nigeria.
“As responsible party leaders in Rivers State, we stand behind Fubara, the democratically elected Governor, urging collaboration between him and the President for the state’s welfare. It is time for earnest governance post-elections.”
Expressing concern over the recent political disturbances in the state, Sekibo lamented the actions of an individual who he alleged was the cause.
“We are disheartened by the disruptions to the peace of our state, orchestrated by one self-serving individual who disrespects the people’s will and seeks to divide us.
“Our citizens reject subjugation and remain united, rejecting tribal or ethnic divisions.
“This individual has misused the trust placed in him by committing acts against the state’s interest, including unwarranted attacks on respected leaders like Dr Peter Odili and Justice Mary Peter-Odili, for their opposition to his scheme to impeach Governor Fubara.”
While acknowledging the President’s prerogative to appoint Wike as FCT Minister, Sekibo urged vigilance, stating, “We owe the President a duty to provide insights and advice regarding his appointee’s conduct and intentions.
“It is imperative for the President to monitor the FCT Administration closely. The Minister has threatened to disrupt peace in Rivers State, warranting intervention from the President.
“Rivers citizens stand united against any attempts to destabilize our state. We implore the President to guide his appointee accordingly.”
Sekibo affirmed, “The majority of Rivers people firmly support Governor Fubara and will resist any unlawful actions to impeach him or disrupt governance, jeopardizing public peace.”
“Given the strategic significance of Rivers State to the country’s economy, especially amidst efforts to maximize oil production for OPEC quotas, we cannot afford disruptions,” he emphasized.
He called for nationwide unity, transcending political or ethnic boundaries, to rally behind the Tinubu administration, collaborating to overcome prevailing economic and security challenges collectively.
Among the attendees at the gathering were Sir Celestine Omehia, Chief Austin Okpara, Tele Ikuru, Lee Maeba, Gabriel Pidomson, Emma Okah, Mrs Toru Ofili, Shedrack Akarolo, and others.