Operating under the aegis of Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation, Ogonis in the diaspora have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the political crisis rocking Rivers State, insisting that the protracted political logjam is affecting development in the state.
In an open letter to the President, they however expressed dismay over the continued silence of the President in the crisis and urged him to call the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike to order.
The President of the Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation, Chief Ambrose Kii, made the call in the open letter to President Tinubu, a copy of which was made available to South-South PUNCH via electronic mail.
Kii said the prolonged silence of the President on the crisis has emboldened Wike to allegedly move to destabilize the state and undermine the administration of the incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for what he termed as personal gains.
The letter reads, “We, the Ogonis in Diaspora Organisation write to express our profound disappointment and concern over your continued silence on the deepening political crisis rocking Rivers State.
“Your inaction, Mr. President, has emboldened Chief Nyesom Wike’s relentless attempts to destabilize the state, exploiting state instruments for personal gain.
“The consequences of your silence are dire. Chief Wike’s actions have undermined Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s authority, escalated violence and insecurity, disrupted economic activities, drove investors away, exacerbated unemployment and redundancy, and inflicted untold hardship on Rivers State citizens.”
Kii further said Wike’s action contracts with his predecessors, who he said governed the state peacefully and allowed their successors to function effectively without interference.
“We cannot but compare Chief Wike’s actions to those of past governors who governed Rivers State peacefully. Dr. Peter Odili, Celestine Omehia, and Rotimi Amaechi respected the democratic process, allowing the state to flourish after the expiration of their tenures.
“In jarring difference, Chief Wike’s quest for control has brought Rivers State to its knees.
“Mr. President, your intervention is crucial. We urge you to call Chief Nyesom Wike to order, ensuring he ceases interfering with Governor Fubara’s administration.”
Appealing to the President to support the Rivers State government in restoring law and order, he urged Tinubu to “investigate allegations of destruction of lives and properties in Rivers State, and ensure accountability for those responsible for the crisis.”
Kii further said, “The Ogoni people and all Rivers State citizens demand peace, stability, and good governance.
“We expect your prompt action to address this crisis. Your leadership can shape Nigeria’s future, and we implore you to act decisively.”
PUNCH
