RIVERS ELDERS URGE UNITY AS EMERGENCY RULE ENDS, COMMEND FUBARA, WIKE, AND TINUBU. (PHOTO).

 Rivers Elders Urge Unity as Emergency Rule Ends, Commend Fubara, Wike, and Tinubu

The Rivers State Elders Council has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly, led by Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, to work harmoniously as they resume their constitutional duties following the end of the emergency rule in the state. The council urged all stakeholders to embrace peace and reconciliation to prevent a recurrence of the political crisis that led to the emergency declaration.

In a statement titled *‘End of Emergency Rule: Let’s Unite for the Peace and Progress of Our Dear State,’* issued on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, the council’s chairman, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, emphasized the need for unity and focus on the development of the oil-rich state. He warned against inflammatory statements or actions that could reignite tensions, urging those harboring grudges to prioritize the state’s interests.

The elders commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his pivotal role in brokering peace between the conflicting parties. They also praised Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly for their commitment to reconciliation, noting their agreement to move past differences during talks facilitated in Abuja. The council highlighted the parties’ reaffirmation of peace before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the vow as “sacrosanct.”

“We urge all stakeholders to embrace the peace and reconciliation that has now returned to our dear state,” the statement read. “The Governor and the House of Assembly must work together without distractions to sustain peace, unity, and development in Rivers State.”

The council expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his proactive intervention, which they said averted a potential disaster in the state. They also lauded Wike for his “large heart” in mediating the reconciliation process and ensuring direct communication with the President. The elders described Tinubu’s resolution of the crisis as a testament to his goodwill toward Rivers State, assuring him of the continued support of its people as his administration pursues the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The council also acknowledged the patience and understanding of Rivers State residents during the emergency rule, calling it a demonstration of faith in Tinubu’s leadership. They urged all parties to honor the reconciliation agreements and work collaboratively for the state’s progress.