Stay away from Rivers, Wike warns IPOB

Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers, says his government will not tolerate any attack on residents of the state by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or any other group.

In a statement received by TheCable, the governor said Rivers belongs to all those who live in it, adding that the state heartily welcomes any Nigerian who resides there.

“The Rivers state government is seriously concerned with the recent activities of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), particularly the attack on Nigerian citizens living in Rivers State,” he said.

“Rivers state belongs to all those who live in it. We heartily welcome any Nigerian who wishes to reside here and go about with his or her lawful businesses. Therefore, we shall not tolerate any attack by any group on other Nigerians living in Oyigbo or any other part of the state.

“We warn troublemakers those who are bent on causing violence on others to steer clear of Rivers territory. Nobody should take our hospitality and peaceful disposition for weakness, as we are capable of dealing decisively with any situation threatens peace and serenity in the state.

“We call on Rivers people to be vigilant and not to allow themselves to be used by anybody to foment trouble in our state. Do not hesitate to report any suspicious character or movements around your vicinity to the law enforcement agencies for immediate action.

“In as much as we may share common concerns about the structural problems of the country, we believe that dialogue, not violence, remains the best way to resolve contending political issues. We therefore pray the federal government to initiate meaningful national dialogue to peacefully resolve the structural challenges that are threatening Nigeria’s stability and progress.

“In the same vein, we urge the security agencies to exercise maximum restraint and conform to international rules of engagement and best practice while responding to provocative acts from ill-advised groups.”

On Friday, the defence headquarters declared IPOB a terrorist organisation and the south-eastern governors would also follow suit by banning the activities of the group.