President Bola Tinubu has called for strict adherence to the rule of law as a means to restore lasting peace and stability in Rivers State. Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during a meeting with leaders of the Niger Delta under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the President stressed the importance of respecting judicial decisions to uphold democracy and ensure progress in the region.
During the meeting, Tinubu acknowledged the political crisis in Rivers State and noted that his administration had taken steps to address the situation before it escalated. He stated that a written agreement had been reached and signed by the involved parties, emphasizing the need for all stakeholders to abide by the constitution and court rulings.
“This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I should not be here as President without a rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. We have expectations. Human beings can make errors. But once the court has spoken, that is it,” Tinubu said.
The President urged leaders from the Niger Delta to play a key role in maintaining peace by ensuring that court decisions are respected and implemented swiftly. He also called on them to intervene and advise the governor, stressing that political stability in Rivers State is essential for its development.
“Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor. Pursue the path of peace and stability,” he added.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to the development of the Niger Delta, assuring the delegation that his administration is working on various projects to improve the region. He noted that the ongoing coastal road project and planned seaport developments would create economic opportunities for the South-South.
“We are already working with international companies to build ports in the Niger Delta States,” he stated.
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, thanked Tinubu for his dedication to the well-being of the South-South region. He acknowledged the President’s efforts in appointing Niger Delta indigenes to key government positions and expressed confidence in his leadership.
“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support. I can say now that God bless Nigeria and your government,” he said.
Former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah also addressed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, warning that instability in the region could have wider consequences for national peace. As chairman of PANDEF’s reconciliation committee in Rivers, Attah called for further intervention to prevent further political tension.
“Instability there has far-reaching consequences on the peace and stability of the nation,” he added.
Attah also praised the President’s policies, particularly his focus on power devolution, infrastructure development, and economic reforms that recognize the unique needs of the South-South region.
The PANDEF delegation included former governors, legislators, ministers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and representatives from youth and women groups. They expressed their support for Tinubu’s administration and urged continued focus on the development of the Niger Delta.
President Tinubu assured them that his administration remains committed to economic growth, stability, and the overall progress of the region. He noted that while challenges remain, Nigeria is on the path to achieving long-term prosperity.
“We cannot achieve Eldorado in one day. But we are on the path to it. We will succeed by the grace of God Almighty,” he said.
