On June 28, 2024, Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, the National Publicity Secretary of the Ijaw National Congress (IJN), spoke with Punch Newspaper about the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to personally intervene in the situation, warning that the crisis could lead to a resurgence of militancy in the area. Oyakemeagbegha pointed out that those distributing guns during the crisis might not retrieve them afterward, exacerbating the problem.
( Photo credit : The Punch Newspaper Verified Facebook Page )
According to Punch Newspaper, Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha emphasized the importance of the President's intervention in the Rivers State crisis. He warned that the situation could lead to a resurgence of militancy, as those supplying guns during the turmoil might not take them back after the conflict ends. He stressed the need for caution and urged the President to prevent further deterioration of the situation in Rivers State.
Oyakemeagbegha also expressed concern about the tenure of Local Government Chairmen, which is constitutionally set at three years. He criticized attempts to unilaterally extend these terms as unconstitutional. Additionally, he called on the people of Rivers State to adhere to the country's rules and regulations.
( Photo credit : The Vanguard Newspaper Verified Facebook Page
As per The Punch, he remarked, "The President should endeavor to personally intervene in the River State crisis. This situation could lead to a resurgence of militancy in the area because those who are giving out guns during this crisis may not withdraw it from them (thugs) after the crisis. So, there is a need for caution in this regard, and the President must not watch things go wrong in Rivers State as it is.”