Tony Okocha, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker Committee in Rivers State, has alarmingly declared that the state is in a "state of war."
According to Okocha, the evidence of a severe crisis is clear and undeniable.
Speaking in an interview on Channels Television Politics Today, Okocha stressed that the situation in Rivers State is critical, with various indicators pointing towards a full-scale conflict.
He claimed to speak on behalf of the people of Rivers, including non-politicians and everyday residents, who are allegedly experiencing widespread suffering.
These individuals, he asserted, are facing molestation, attacks, and humiliation due to the actions of the state government.
One of Okocha's primary grievances is with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whom he accuses of unlawfully removing local government chairmen.
He argues that these actions have significantly worsened the already dire situation in the state.
According to Okocha, the governor’s decisions have led to increased tension and unrest among the populace.
Okocha elaborated that the people of Rivers State feel oppressed and victimised under the current administration.
He pointed out that many residents are living in fear due to the constant threat of violence and intimidation.
This atmosphere of fear, he said, is a direct result of the governor’s actions, which he described as draconian and unjust.
The APC Caretaker Committee Chairman called for immediate attention to the plight of the Rivers people.
He urged higher authorities to intervene and address the issues plaguing the state.
Okocha said, "We are in a state of war, and all the indices and variables are palpable, and so, what else will anyone say?
"My friend there said he was speaking his opinion. I am speaking the opinion of Rivers people; I'm speaking the opinion of non-politicians; I'm speaking the opinion of residents of Rivers State who have been molested, who are being attacked, who are being humiliated because of the war that the governor himself unleashed."
Watch the interview video here (start from 18:13).