In a speech to political leaders of the South-South, President Bola Tinubu stressed the importance of adherence to law and order in Rivers State in order to achieve lasting peace.
In a meeting held with leaders and representatives of the Niger Delta in the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, President Tinubu reaffirmed that the respect of the judiciary was crucial to promoting harmony and maintaining democracy.
He urged the leaders to have a broader vision, be less self-centered and more focused on the greater goal of saving the region economically and politically by insisting the interpretations made by the courts of the Constitution.
I am grateful for your prayers, support and concern. “I cannot complain. I fought for and pleaded for this job. Whatever it takes, I will do this with my whole heart.
I will ensure that we meet our goals and promises.
“Nigeria’s a wonderful country.” From the outside and from within, some of these cabinet members believe that we are doing everything possible to give Nigeria an economic reset, a rebounce and a recalibration.
The Niger Delta does indeed lay the golden eggs. If we don’t take care of the goose, then the golden eggs will be lost. Your signal was clear, as were your concerns about Rivers State. It’s been a while since I last addressed this issue. Before I intervened, I had seen the situation deteriorate for a long time.
Both parties have signed a written agreement.
According to the President, stakeholders will have to make sacrifices in order for the country’s progress by recognizing the Constitution.
This is a country governed by law. Without a rule-of-law, I shouldn’t be President. Our judiciary has my complete confidence. Expectations are high. Human beings can make errors. Once the court speaks, it is over.
Please go home to help the courts implement their rulings as soon as possible. You are in charge. Help! Intervene openly or privately and offer advice to the Governor. “Pursue peace and stability,” said he.
Tinubu said that he prioritizes community development and, in particular, projects and programs that have a positive impact on citizens.
Go home, and make peace. Let me know if you need anything. The situation has been given enough thought and time. We will never and cannot back down. The people of Rivers State will not suffer because of democracy. We worked together on it. They will not suffer. They must be protected,” President Tinubu said.
The President commended the leadership of the Niger Delta.
“I have seen what you have tolerated in the region. Community development is very close to my heart. The leader of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, is doing a great job and should be encouraged to do more.
“He is your son. We are all proud of him. Yes, there are lots of misadventurers around Nigeria on democracy. We will continue to work on preserving the integrity and character of our legislators.
“I sincerely thank you for bringing up those issues. And for doing what you are doing for the country. Nigeria is too big for anyone. And greater than anyone. It is so great. That greatness must come from us through our determination, perseverance and endurance to do all we can to improve it.”
President Tinubu thanked the delegation for acknowledging the efforts to stimulate the economy for more sustainable and predictable growth.
“We cannot achieve Eldorado in one day. But we are on the path to it. We will succeed by the grace of God Almighty. We are resetting the economy, and it looks far better. We have funds for our children in college. Our medical colleges are also getting equipped,” he said.
The President noted that the ongoing coastal road project will create new economic benefits for the Niger Delta and the country.
“We are already working with international companies to build ports in the Niger Delta States,” he stated.
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, thanked the President for his commitment to South-South well-being and appointments given to Niger Delta indigenes.
“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support. I can say now that God bless Nigeria and your government,” he said.
Obong Victor Attah, former governor of Akwa Ibom State and co-chair of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, called for further intervention in the Rivers State crises.
Attah, who also chairs the reconciliation committee set up by PANDEF in Rivers State, said the political crises in Rivers State threaten national stability and deserve more attention.
“Instability there has far-reaching consequences on the peace and stability of the nation,” he added.
He praised the President’s reforms, including power devolution and regional development recognition, and urged focus on infrastructure, seaports, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism in the South-South.
The PANDEF delegation included former governors, legislators, ministers, traditional leaders, religious figures, and youth and women groups.
Credit: Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) – March 11, 2025.
