Rufus Ada-George, the former Governor of Rivers State, has appealed for peace and restraint amid the ongoing political turmoil in the state.
This comes after the Supreme Court’s verdict on the state’s political situation, which has sparked tensions.
Ada-George warned against inflammatory statements, threats, and ultimatums, emphasizing the need for caution and prioritizing the state’s well-being. He noted that despite the Supreme Court’s ruling, there’s still room for pragmatic decisions to mitigate its adverse effects on the people.
The former governor drew parallels with the 1962 Western Regional Crisis, stressing that failure to manage political disputes can have far-reaching consequences beyond Rivers State. He expressed concern over the current tension, citing the withholding of monthly allocations to the state and its impact on ordinary citizens.
Ada-George called for dialogue and compromise, highlighting the importance of negotiation in peacebuilding, even in war-torn regions. He urged former governors and their deputies to unite and speak in the state’s best interest, and appealed to the 32 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to prioritize stability and progress.
The former governor’s address comes after the Rivers State House of Assembly issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Chairman and Commissioners to appear before it. Residents remain hopeful that recent developments will not lead to further instability.
