By: Joy Musa
The Northern Minority Consultative Forum has condemned lawmakers in Rivers State who are accused of prioritizing personal interests over the welfare of the people. The group particularly took aim at those allegedly backing former Governor Nyesom Wike’s influence in the current administration, despite claims that it runs counter to the interests of the citizens.
In a strongly worded statement, the forum expressed concern over the actions of some pro-Wike lawmakers, accusing them of undermining due process and engaging in what they described as “illegal” support for policies that favor the former governor at the expense of Rivers State’s future. They specifically highlighted recent events where Governor Siminalayi Fubara, after being duly elected, was forced to confront a situation where the actions of some lawmakers allegedly sought to perpetuate the interests of one individual over the general public good.
“The recent events where His Excellency, Governor Fubara, had to go through the due process of approaching Assembly quarters and negotiating with key stakeholders is a testament to his commitment to the people of Rivers State,” the forum stated. “However, it seems that certain individuals in the assembly have chosen to elevate the interests of one man—Wike—above those of the people they were elected to serve.”
The forum decried what they called an “unfortunate” situation where the focus appears to be on safeguarding the legacy of the former governor, even if it means jeopardizing the aspirations of Rivers people. They lamented that such actions paint a grim picture of leadership where the welfare of the citizens is secondary to individual ambitions.
The Northern Minority Consultative Forum, which represents a cross-section of stakeholders in the region, further criticized lawmakers who they claimed were “blinded by loyalty to Wike” and urged them to refocus on the greater good of Rivers State. “It is shocking that some lawmakers would allow themselves to be manipulated to the detriment of their people. They should remember that they were elected to serve Rivers State, not one individual,” the statement read.
However, the forum called on all elected officials in Rivers State to prioritize the interests of the people, stressing that no single person’s ambition should be allowed to supersede the collective will of the citizens. They also urged Governor Fubara to continue with his leadership, ensuring that the interests of Rivers people remain the focal point of his administration.
This criticism from the Northern Minority Consultative Forum adds to the growing tension within the state’s political landscape, raising concerns over the future direction of governance in Rivers State.
