Nigeria – Kogi Senator Urges Tinubu to Intervene In Rivers Crisis

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Senator representing Kogi Central senatorial district in the Red Chamber, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has called on Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, to step in and mediate the growing crisis in Rivers State, which has escalated into a political dispute between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by her media aide, Israel Arogbonlo, the Kogi Senator expressed concern over the conflict and its potential to destabilize the region.

She urged President Tinubu to ensure that Wike focuses on his responsibilities as the FCT Minister, while allowing Governor Fubara to govern Rivers State as constitutionally mandated.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan highlighted the alarming situation in Rivers State, citing reports of violence, intimidation, and alleged electoral malpractices.

She emphasized that these developments pose a significant threat to the peace and stability of the state, and by extension, the nation.

“The situation in Rivers demands urgent attention, and I implore Mr. President to take decisive action to prevent further escalation,” the senator said.

She warned that if the crisis is not addressed, it could undermine Nigeria’s democratic progress, embolden violent actors, and threaten national security.

Akpoti-Uduaghan called for immediate intervention to protect lives and property, maintain the neutrality of state institutions, and restore order.

Her appeal comes amid growing concerns that the ongoing tensions in Rivers State could spill over into neighboring regions, raising the stakes for a peaceful resolution.