Doyin Okupe Reveals The Only Solution To Rivers Political Crisis

Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesman, has warned that the political crisis in Rivers State has escalated to a point where it could seriously threaten the nation’s democracy.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday, Okupe stated that the crisis could destabilize the country if not resolved swiftly.

He characterized the conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, along with the resulting political tension, as unfortunate.

Read Also: Rivers Elders Choose Between Wike, Fubara Amid Political Crisis

“Going down memory lane, one is sad to note that the feud between Wike and Fubara is comparable to that between late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and the then Premier of the Western Region, Chief Samuel Akintola.

“As remote and limited this crisis was then, it was one of the precursors of the collapse of that republic.

“It will be wise for the Federal Government and men of goodwill in Rivers and the entire nation to move in on this matter before it goes completely, and uncontrollably out of hands,” Mr Okupe said

He stated that a political solution, regardless of how challenging it may be to achieve, is essential for effectively resolving the ongoing issues and addressing the concerns of all parties involved in the crisis.

Wike and his successor, Fubara, have been embroiled in a political struggle for control of the state for several months, leading to heightened tensions and divisions within the state assembly.

The situation escalated following the October 5 council elections, which resulted in violent attacks on several council secretariats by political thugs.

Adding to the turmoil, the Court of Appeal in Abuja recently upheld a lower court’s decision to nullify the state’s 2024 budget, which had been signed into law and implemented by Fubara, further deepening uncertainty.

This N800 billion budget was passed in December 2023 by a faction of the state’s House of Assembly loyal to Fubara, led by Edison Ehie.

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