Gladness Gideon
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) has urged political leaders in Rivers State to set aside personal rivalries and work towards peace, warning that the ongoing political crisis threatens governance and essential public services.
In a statement on Monday, IHRC Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, Dr. Duru Hezekiah, expressed concern over the suspension of key elected officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state House of Assembly. He cautioned that the resulting governance paralysis could severely impact sectors such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.
“The pursuit of peace must take precedence over political ambition,” Hezekiah stated, emphasizing that stability fosters economic growth, political cohesion, and national security. He further stressed that democratic governance should not be reduced to a zero-sum contest of winners and losers, particularly in such a critical period.
The IHRC also issued a direct appeal to Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, urging him to prioritize peace-building, security, and human rights initiatives. The commission underscored the importance of ensuring that communities are free from violence and instability, which could further derail human development efforts.
“We call for an end to the zero-sum political approach and reaffirm the supremacy of the Nigerian constitution and legal redress,” the IHRC stated. “Unity and peaceful resolution must remain the foundation of national progress.”
READ ALSO: Group to Tinubu: Set Up Panel to End Rivers Emergency Rule
The six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, was implemented to restore stability amid prolonged political turmoil. The crisis has not only disrupted governance but also posed a significant threat to vital oil and gas installations—critical to Nigeria’s economic stability.
As Rivers State navigates this turbulent period, the IHRC’s call for reconciliation and collaborative governance underscores the urgent need for political actors to prioritize the welfare of the people over partisan conflicts.