By Desmond Ejibas
Port Harcourt – The Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum (RELEF) on Friday congratulated Gov. Siminialayi Fubara of Rivers for his victory at the Supreme Court.
The apex court on Thursday upheld Fubara’s victory in the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial election in Rivers.
RELEF Chairman, Chief Rufus Ada-George, informed journalists at a news conference in Port Harcourt that the court’s ruling has put an end to the era of strongmen in Rivers.
Represented by Dr Gabriel Toby, a former Deputy Governor in Rivers, Ada-George stated that the Supreme Court’s position has resolved the political crises in the state.
“The Supreme Court, the apex temple of justice in Nigeria, has spoken, and therefore, RELEF calls on all men and women of goodwill to obey its judgment.
“The forum congratulates Gov. Fubara and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Ordu, on their victories at the various courts of law and wishes them God’s guidance in governing the state.
” In this contest, there is no victor, no vanquished, as the judgment lays to rest the era of strongmen, while promoting and supporting strong and viable institutions,” he remarked.
Ada-George, an ex-governor in the state, emphasized the group’s commitment to upholding the country’s laws and the rule of law.
“Therefore, we also commend the Supreme Court for its excellent and timely resolution of electoral matters in Rivers state.
“The judgment has calmed the lingering political tension in the state and indeed the Niger Delta, hence, let all political guns be silent forever.
“To this end, the forum urges Governor Fubara to govern with the fear of God and in the dictates of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he advised.
The elder statesman further urged Fubara to govern with magnanimity, accommodate diverse perspectives, and utilize the state’s resources for the appropriate development of Rivers.
Responding to inquiries about the political rivalry between Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Toby, speaking for himself, appealed to both parties to reconcile their differences.
He noted that in his address following the Supreme Court ruling, Fubara acknowledged and maintained his respect for Wike.
“Gov. Fubara in his address called for peace and referred to the man (Wike) as my ‘Oga.’
“The governor expressed gratitude and appreciation for the support he received from Wike. So, what more do you want from him.
“Both parties can sleep well now. What we now want from Wike is to assume the role of an elder statesman – even though he is a minister,” he stated.
Toby emphasized that there cannot be peace and development in the state if both political leaders continue to engage in conflict.
He expressed confidence that the former governor, Wike, has the state’s best interests at heart and would therefore work towards restoring peace.
“Gov. Fubara is already on the road to reconcile and bring everybody together, so that peace can reign in the state.
“Based on the Supreme Court’s ruling, Fubara is the governor of Rivers state, and therefore, everyone should acknowledge this and respect the governor’s office.
“As the governor of Rivers, Fubara is responsible for our collective will, and so, if you insult him, remember that you are insulting the people who voted him into office,” Toby added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a communique was signed and issued by 22 members of the forum.
