Political tensions in Rivers State have reached a boiling point as prominent Ijaw organisations, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), issued a stern warning to those allegedly plotting the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The groups have vowed to resist any attempt to unseat the governor, raising fears of potential unrest in the oil-rich state.
The escalating crisis stems from a deepening rift between Governor Fubara and a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Reports indicate that lawmakers aligned with Wike have been pushing to oust Fubara, accusing him of mismanagement and failing to adhere to political agreements. However, Fubara’s supporters argue that the impeachment moves are a power grab orchestrated by Wike to maintain control over the state’s political machinery.
In a joint statement released on Tuesday, the INC and IYC condemned the alleged impeachment plot as “an affront to the Ijaw people” and a threat to democratic stability in Rivers State.
“Governor Fubara is our son and any attempt to remove him unjustly will be met with fierce resistance,” said INC President, Dr. Tarila Ebizimor. The IYC echoed this sentiment, warning of mass mobilisation if the situation deteriorates further.
The standoff has heightened fears of violence in a state already grappling with security challenges, including militancy and oil theft. Political analysts suggest that the conflict could destabilise the Niger Delta region, a critical hub for Nigeria’s oil production.
The state government has yet to officially respond, but sources close to Fubara indicate he remains defiant.
As Rivers State braces for what could be a protracted political battle, all eyes are on Abuja, where federal authorities may be forced to intervene.
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