Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesman, has raised alarms about the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, stating that it poses a significant risk to the nation’s democracy. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Okupe emphasized that the situation, marked by a feud between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, could lead to destabilization if not addressed promptly.
Historical Comparisons
Okupe drew parallels between the current conflict and historical political tensions, likening it to the feud between late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Samuel Akintola, which contributed to the collapse of the first republic. He expressed sadness over the ongoing strife and warned that, if left unresolved, the current crisis in Rivers could have dire consequences for the state and the nation as a whole.
“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,” Okupe stated.
Call for Political Solutions
Okupe urged the Federal Government and other influential figures in Rivers and across the nation to intervene in the crisis before it escalates further. He reiterated that only a political solution, despite its inherent challenges, could effectively address the issues at hand.
The political tension in Rivers has been heightened by recent events, including the October 5 council elections, which saw violent clashes and the destruction of council secretariats by political thugs. This unrest has further polarized the state assembly and created uncertainty regarding governance in the state.
Legal Challenges
The situation has been exacerbated by a recent ruling from the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which upheld a lower court’s decision to nullify the ₦800 billion budget for 2024 signed into law by Fubara. This budget was passed by a faction of the state’s House of Assembly loyal to Fubara, led by Edison Ehie, and its nullification adds to the instability in the region.
As the political struggle continues, the implications of the crisis could extend beyond Rivers State, potentially affecting the broader political landscape in Nigeria.