Ex-militant leader and Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, Ateke Tom, has called for calm and warned against the injection of ethnic sentiments in the ongoing dispute between the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Chief Nyesom Wike.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, Ateke Tom appealed to all stakeholders to approach the situation with caution, emphasizing that the face-off was merely a disagreement between a father and his political godson.
Recognizing the need for resolution and de-escalation, the monarch urged the elders and traditional leaders of Rivers State to come together and mediate between the warring factions.
He urged the public not to sensationalize the issue or exploit it for political gain, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and reconciliation.
“I strongly urge for peace and reconciliation in the light of the strained relationship between these two leaders,” Ateke Tom said. “It is essential that we do not give an ethnic dimension to this issue. This dispute should not be exploited for political gain.”
Highlighting their previous alliance, Ateke Tom reminded everyone that Wike, a member of the Ikwerre ethnic group, had played a crucial role in elevating Fubara, who hails from the riverine area of the state, to the position of governor.
He condemned the attempts to destabilize the state by attributing ethnic motives to the crisis, stressing that such actions would not benefit anyone.
Expressing his concern about the move to impeach Fubara after a short tenure of less than six months, Ateke Tom asserted that this was not in the best interest of Rivers State.
“I have observed with deep concern the ongoing situation in Rivers State. Our beloved Rivers State is currently facing a challenging situation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja,” Ateke Tom stated.
“The current crisis must be swiftly resolved for the benefit of our state and its people. We should continue the path of development and peace established by the previous administration, which the current government is also following.
“I condemn the attempted impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara within only six months of his administration. This is not in the best interest of our state.
“I call on law enforcement agencies to remain loyal to the people and not be swayed by political actors. The use of water cannons and tear gas on the Rivers State Governor is unacceptable.
“I hope for a return to normalcy in our government and legislative processes, which will benefit our citizens and business community.
“I appeal to all the people of Rivers State, including political actors, royal fathers, and the youth, to come together and prioritize peace, unity, and dialogue.
“Our state’s future depends on our collective efforts.”
