1st November, 2023
By Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt
The paramount ruler of Okochiri Kingdom in Rivers, King Michael Ateke Tom has described has condemned the use of teargas and water canons on Governor Siminalayi Fubara last Monday by the police.
The Police had last Monday doused the Governor and some of his supporters with water and teargas on their way to inspect the Rivers House of Assembly complex which was bombed the previous night.
Reacting to the incident, Ateke Tom, one of the former leader of militant groups in the Niger Delta cautioned law enforcement agents against dancing to the tune of political actors.
Rather, the traditional ruler who is well respected by the youths urged law enforcement operatives to remain loyal to the people and the Constitution of Nigeria.
“The use of water cannons and teargas on the Rivers State Governor is unacceptable. This is not in the best interest of our state”.
He also warned against giving ethnic colouration to the ongoing face off between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The Amanyanabo of Okochiri however urged the two leaders to find ways of reaching common ground so that they can reconcile their differences.
“It is essential that we do not give an ethnic dimension to this issue. This dispute should not be exploited for political gains”
“King Ateke Tom calls for a speedy return to normalcy in our government and legislative processes, which will benefit our citizens and business community,” he said.
He also appealed to “the people of Rivers State, including political actors, Royal fathers, and the youth, to come together and prioritize peace, unity, and dialogue because the future of the state depends on our collective efforts.”
He asks for the swift resolution of the current crisis for the benefit of the state, its people and to ensure the sustenance of the path of development and peace established by the previous administration.