President Tinubu Urges Respect for Rule of Law in Rivers State to Restore Peace
President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the necessity for political stakeholders in Rivers State to respect court rulings and uphold the rule of law as a means to restore peace in the troubled state.
In a statement released on Tuesday, President Tinubu made this appeal during a meeting in Abuja with leaders of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). The President expressed gratitude for the support and prayers he has received in his role, reaffirming his commitment to fulfill the promises made during his campaign.
"Respect for judicial decisions is crucial for our democracy. All stakeholders must recognize and implement court rulings," Tinubu stated, underscoring the importance of the rule of law in governance. He asserted his confidence in the judiciary and urged PANDEF leaders to take proactive measures to ensure the enforcement of court decisions.
"We must address the issues in Rivers State swiftly. I encourage you to privately and publicly counsel the governor, and advocate for peace and stability," he urged.
Political Turmoil and Economic Concerns
The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State is generating apprehension regarding the economic and political stability of the oil-rich Niger Delta. President Tinubu articulated the significance of protecting the region’s prosperity, emphasizing that "the Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg," stressing the need to care for it to ensure continued prosperity.
He disclosed to the delegation that an agreement had been reached between the conflicting parties, and he promised that his administration would work to ensure that the people of Rivers State do not suffer due to political strife.
"The citizens of Rivers State will not bear the brunt of democracy. We must protect them," he declared.
Call for Action from PANDEF Leaders
Responding to President Tinubu’s comments, PANDEF leaders, including King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff and Obong Victor Attah, voiced their support for the President’s initiative. Attah highlighted the national security implications of the ongoing political instability, warning of its broader effects on the country.
He commended Tinubu’s governance approach, especially regarding power devolution and infrastructure development, while urging continued focus on the prosperity of the region.
The delegation also included former governors, legislators, ministers, traditional leaders, and representatives from various sectors, all of whom expressed their confidence in the President’s leadership and advocated for urgent solutions to the crisis in Rivers State.
"We must all work together to enhance the greatness of Nigeria through determination and perseverance," President Tinubu concluded.
