'Intervene in Rivers Crisis Now’ – Lawmaker Appeals to Tinubu on Fubara

‘Intervene in Rivers Crisis Now’ – Lawmaker Appeals to Tinubu on Fubara
He linked the tension to political transition after defections to the APC.
Agbese urged President Tinubu to intervene and restore unity in the state.

A member of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has played down the political crisis currently unfolding in Rivers State, describing the situation as manageable and not a cause for serious concern.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Agbese, who represents Ado Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, made the remarks amid rising political tension following the Rivers State House of Assembly’s move to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara over allegations of gross misconduct, including financial misappropriation.

Speaking on Arise News on Thursday, the lawmaker urged political actors and the public to avoid exaggerating the situation, warning that doing so could undermine governance and stability in the oil producing state.

According to Agbese, the crisis is largely a consequence of political transition, noting that both the governor and several members of the Rivers State House of Assembly recently moved from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

“The situation is manageable. It’s partly a product of a political transition. Many of the tensions are remnants of old political practices and cultures carried over from the former party, rather than a reflection of the values of the APC,” he said.

Agbese, who also serves as Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, said the APC is built on strong organisational structure, peace, and effective cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government, which he noted has been demonstrated at the federal level.

He stressed the need for political actors in Rivers State to set aside past rivalries and align with what he described as the cooperative governance principles of the ruling party.

“It is imperative that all political actors relinquish lingering acrimony from their past and wholeheartedly embrace the enlightened doctrines of the APC manifesto. They must adapt swiftly to foster harmonious governance for the benefit of the people of Rivers State,” Agbese stated.

The lawmaker also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter to prevent further escalation.

“I earnestly implore Mr President to intervene expeditiously and shepherd all stakeholders toward enduring unity and prosperity. Rivers State deserves, and shall attain, lasting peace,” he added.