Ijaw youths ask Tinubu to restore democratic rule in Rivers

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has asked President Bola Tinubu to restore democratic rule in Rivers state.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday to mark the 57th Adaka Boro Day celebration in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers, Theophilus Alaye, IYC president, said residents are “running out of patience” with the delay in reinstatement of elected officials in the state.

“We appeal to your excellency to please restore full democratic governance in the state by restoring executives’ powers of the people’s governor, his excellency sir, Sim Fubara, the executive governor of Rivers state, and the state house of assembly,” he said.

“The people of Rivers state deserve lawful governance that will give the people the needed dividends of democracy and continuity of people-oriented development.

“Mr president, sir, you are a true democrat and your intention for Rivers people is genuine. However, removing our governor is not the step the people of Rivers state expected from a true democrat like you and as such the people of Rivers state are still in shock.

“You know the majority of our people are emotional, and we can not pacify them for too long regarding the situation here in Rivers State.

“Mr president sir, we acknowledge the peace process you have initiated and we thank you for that.

“This alone has shown that you truly have genuine intention for sustaining peace in Rivers state, however, as believers of democracy, we want a speedy restoration of Rivers state back to the government of the people.”

Alaye also called for the removal of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from the treasury single account (TSA).

He said this will enable the NDDC to deliver more “impactful projects” that benefit our oil-producing communities.

BACKGROUND

On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the prolonged political crisis.

He also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly for a period of six months.

The president appointed Ibok-Ette Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.

After his appointment, Ibas suspended all political officeholders appointed by Fubara.

Several stakeholders, including the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), have criticised Ibas over the handling of the state’s affairs.

There have been protests in the state demanding the reinstatement of Fubara.