A coalition of youth organizations in Rivers State, led by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Rivers State Chapter, has issued a strong statement urging all political stakeholders to adhere to democratic principles and constitutional processes amid recent developments in the state.
The press conference, held on Monday, addressed key concerns, including the declaration of a state of emergency, the suspension of the elected government, and the role of the National Assembly. The youth groups emphasized that Nigeria’s constitutional democracy must be preserved to safeguard the rights and will of the people.
Speaking, the Chairman of the NYCN in the state, Gift Jumbo, warned that the rule of law is meant for everyone and nobody is above the law. She made the following calls:
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is to reconsider the declaration of a state of emergency and ensure that all actions align with democratic principles and constitutional provisions.
- The National Assembly reaffirms its commitment to democracy by ensuring its decisions uphold the rule of law and federalism.
- The Judiciary is to remain independent and uphold justice in governance-related matters.
4 . Civil society organizations, the international community, and democratic stakeholders to advocate for the protection of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and due process in resolving political disputes.”
Lending his voice to the earlier calls, however, the leader of the South-South Youth Initiative, Saviour Oscar, accused the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, of deceiving the president by misinforming him about the state of the assembly complex being rebuilt.
He also wondered why a state of emergency was yet to be declared in Osun state despite the crisis enveloping the councils over there.
Oscar said: “Now that we have confirmed that this house of assembly is nearing completion and that there’s no shooting on River state which was the reason the president gave in declaring a state of emergency, can we now reinstate our governor Siminalayi Fubara? Can you the Sole Administrator now resign your position as you’ve seen that the state is peaceful!”
In their closing remarks, the groups reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to a democratic Rivers State and Nigeria, where governance is rooted in constitutionalism, the rule of law, and the will of the people.
