The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide has expressed reservations about the peace deal brokered between Rivers State Governor Siminalaye Fubara and his predecessor Nyesome Wike by President Bola Tinubu. The council labeled the agreement as “a rape on democracy and open hatred for the Ijaws,” cautioning Fubara to remain vigilant.
In a statement signed by its spokesman, Amb. Binebai Princewill, the IYC emphasized that it was not yet time for celebration, urging Fubara to demonstrate effective governance. The council questioned the party affiliation of the 27 lawmakers who defected in the Rivers State House of Assembly, seeking clarity on whether they were now in the APC or PDP.
While thanking Tinubu for intervening in the crisis, the Ijaw Youth Council criticized the settlement as one-sided, lacking justice and fairness, and favoring Wike over Fubara. It argued that the resolutions were biased and accused Tinubu of exhibiting hatred against the Ijaws.
The council aligned with the position of Senator Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, leader of PANDEF, asserting that Tinubu’s intervention demonstrated bias. It expressed concerns about the health of Nigeria’s democracy, stating that decisions should be in line with the constitution.
The IYC challenged Tinubu’s fairness, questioning the President’s role in dictating resolutions between two parties in conflict. It criticized the directive that Fubara should represent a budget passed by the state House of Assembly and reinstate sacked local government chairmen, considering these actions as political rascality.
In conclusion, the Ijaw Youth Council urged Fubara to focus on rebuilding a stronger Rivers State, emphasizing that the settlement should not compromise the governor’s authority.