Dickson Visits Gov Fubara, Urges Calm Amid Political Tension In Rivers
Former Governor of Bayelsa State and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, has called for peace and restraint amid the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
Speaking after a private visit to Governor Siminalayi Fubara at his residence in Port Harcourt on Thursday afternoon, Dickson described their conversation as “frank” and centred on the “extreme political developments” in the state over the past few weeks. He praised Governor Fubara’s calmness and peaceful disposition during what he termed an “unprecedented turbulence.”
Dickson commended the people of Rivers State for maintaining peace and order but warned that the apparent calm could be “the peace of a graveyard,” which could be disrupted by any minor trigger. He urged the people, especially the youths of Rivers and the Ijaw Nation across the Niger Delta, to remain peaceful and resist provocation or incitement to violence.
“I appeal to our youths, from Arogbo in Ondo State to Ibeno in Akwa Ibom, to avoid destruction, especially of strategic oil and gas infrastructure. Such actions could worsen the region’s environmental degradation and cause further economic and fiscal challenges,” he said.
The former governor urged stakeholders to prioritise the well-being of Rivers State and the country in their decisions and actions. He also advised the Sole Administrator involved in the situation to act in ways that promote confidence and support peaceful resolution.
Dickson called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and prevail on all parties, including Fubara and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to embrace tolerance and find common ground.
“There are no perfect fathers and sons. We must learn to manage our imperfections and preserve the unique relationships that have brought us this far,” he stated.
He emphasised that the Ijaw Nation is not in conflict with the Federal Government, adding that the region seeks a restructured and inclusive Nigeria. “We see the President as a partner in our quest for justice, development, and true federalism,” he added.
Dickson also urged all leaders from the Niger Delta, both at state and national levels, to actively participate in resolving the political impasse in Rivers.
