APC chieftain to Oborevwori: Support Tinubu’s initiatives to restore peace in Rivers

Evance Ivwurie, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta, says Sheriff Oborevwori, governor of the state, should support President Bola Tinubu’s initiatives to restore peace in Rivers.

In a statement on Tuesday, Ivwurie, also a former Delta state house of assembly member, alleged that the governor is publicly opposing President Bola Tinubu’s policies while secretly seeking to join the APC.

“His actions reflect a troubling desperation and a profound lack of integrity,” the former commissioner for special duties said.

Ivwurie warned Oborevwori against dragging Delta state into “an unnecessary confrontation with the federal government”.

According to him, the governor’s stance against the recent state of emergency declared in Rivers state could hinder development in Delta.

He said Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers “is a necessary measure to restore peace, order, and good governance in the troubled state.

“The president’s declaration has saved Rivers state from collapse and destruction amid the intense power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly,” Ivwurie said.

He criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors’ forum for opposing the emergency rule and taking legal action against the president.

“It is utterly irresponsible for Governor Oborevwori to embroil Delta state in a frivolous lawsuit challenging a constitutional provision that empowers the president to act in times of crisis,” he said.

“Rather than working against the president’s efforts to restore stability, Governor Oborevwori should support initiatives that ensure peace and economic security in the region.

“The implications of the governor’s opposition to the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers are particularly troubling given the critical security situation in Rivers state, which poses an existential threat to the economy and livelihoods of Nigerians, particularly Deltans.

“Delta state’s reliance on FAAC allocation for its revenue, heavily dependent on oil production, makes it imperative to support the president’s efforts to address the crisis.

“The governor’s consistent refusal to support President Tinubu’s efforts, particularly in his case to restore stability and ensure good governance in Rivers state, is a poor representation of Delta state.

“His reckless actions will only perpetuate chaos, crisis, and instability in Rivers state.

“The people of Delta state deserve quality and better leadership, one that prioritises their welfare and well-being over partisan interests.

“The governor’s actions will not be forgotten soon, and the people of Delta state will hold him accountable for his irresponsible and recalcitrant behaviour towards President Tinubu.”