Rivers elders warn against plot to impeach Fubara, deputy
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The former deputy governor also argued that Fubara's mandate was freely given by the electorate and can only be questioned in strict compliance with constitutional provisions, due process, and clear, compelling, and verifiable grounds.
By Desmond Ejibas
The Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum (RELEF) has said the reasons advanced by the state lawmakers for the attempted removal of the governor of Gov. Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Ordu are weak, insubstantial, and devoid of public interest justification or constitutional weight.
The Acting Chairman of RELEF, Dr Gabriel Toby, a former deputy governor of Rivers said this in a statement on Saturday
He therefore condemned the impeachment move in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
Toby warned that impeachment was a grave constitutional process and must not be deployed as “an instrument of political vendetta or factional rivalry.”
He said the allegations against Gov. Fubara appear to be driven by narrow personal interests rather than any sincere concern for good governance in the state.
The former deputy governor also argued that Fubara’s mandate was freely given by the electorate and can only be questioned in strict compliance with constitutional provisions, due process, and clear, compelling, and verifiable grounds.
Toby cautioned that the current course of action could deepen political divisions and erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
He added that it could further destabilise an already fragile political environment in the state.
“Rivers State has yet to fully recover from the political, social and institutional disruptions of the recent emergency rule.
“Our people are still bearing the consequences of that episode, and the present development risks reopening old wounds and heightening tensions,” he added.
The elder statesman stressed that stability and focussed governance were urgently required and called on the lawmakers to immediately retrace their steps in the interest of peace and progress.
He also urged the legislators to place the collective interest of the state above partisan or personal considerations.
He reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to peace, unity, justice and constitutional democracy.
“We will not remain silent in the face of actions capable of threatening the stability, dignity, and future of Rivers State.
“We appeal for wisdom and restraint to prevail in the overall interest of the people. We urge all stakeholders to allow the state to heal and move forward.” Toby said.(NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)
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