Tinubu addresses Rivers political crisis, calls for peace, rule of Law

President Bola Tinubu has addressed the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, highlighting his efforts to restore peace through private and public engagements.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a meeting with leaders of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Tinubu revealed that he had foreseen the crisis and urged all stakeholders to work toward peace while upholding the rule of law.

He advised Governor Siminalayi Fubara to implement the recommendations given to him and respect legal institutions, emphasizing that the Supreme Court remains the highest authority in the country.

The president also called on Niger Delta leaders to support him in ensuring stability in the region.

His remarks follow the Supreme Court’s ruling that upheld Martins Amaewhule as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The ruling was a setback for Governor Fubara, as the court recognized the authority of 27 lawmakers loyal to former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Additionally, the Supreme Court ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Accountant General of the Federation, and other financial institutions to withhold funds from the Rivers State government due to what it described as “flagrant disobedience” to judicial orders.

The ruling further nullified the recent local government elections in Rivers State, citing violations of the Electoral Act.