A socio-political group in Rivers State, Simplicity Movement, has urged the newly appointed Sole Administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), to prioritize economic growth, public welfare, and peace stabilization as he leads the affairs of the state.
The group also declared its full support for his leadership in bringing lasting peace and development to the state.
In a statement signed by its National Leader, High Chief Amb. Sobomabo Jackrich, the group condemned the recent pipeline explosion, calling it an act of sabotage by those intent on destabilizing the peace of the state. However, it emphasized that Rivers State must not be ruled indefinitely outside the constitution.
The group also criticized the alleged appointment of sole administrators for local government areas and reaffirmed its solidarity with Governor Siminialayi Fubara, arguing that his suspension was based on misinformation presented to the President.
Statement by Simplicity Movement: “We, the leadership and members of Simplicity Movement, a socio-political group with a strong presence across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State, warmly welcome the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, His Excellency, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.).”
“We believe that you were carefully selected by President Bola Tinubu due to your pedigree and track record as a seasoned military administrator. Entrusted with the critical mandate to restore peace, law, and order in Rivers State, we urge you to carry out this responsibility with sincerity and fairness for the collective good of the people.”
“Just as you assured in your inaugural address that you are not here as a partisan actor but as a stabilizing force, we appeal that you uphold this principle throughout your tenure.”
The group disputed claims of insecurity in the state, arguing that Rivers remains peaceful despite political disagreements. It condemned false narratives being spread in the media and called on the public to disregard misleading reports that portray the state as chaotic.
The group strongly condemned the suspension of Governor Siminialayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly, describing it as unconstitutional and a threat to democracy.
“While Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution grants the President the power to declare a state of emergency, it does not give him the authority to suspend an elected governor. This is a clear abuse of power and sets a dangerous precedent.”
“The people of Rivers State elected Governor Fubara. Any attempt to remove him must follow constitutional means. We urge President Tinubu to reconsider this decision and reinstate the governor in the interest of democracy.”
The group also criticized the role of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in the crisis, arguing that he should have also faced sanctions if fairness and justice were to be upheld.
Expressing concern over recent explosions at oil and gas installations in the state, the group described these incidents as deliberate acts of sabotage aimed at justifying an extension of the state of emergency.
“We call on the Sole Administrator and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The group recalled that Governor Fubara had taken proactive measures to protect oil installations, including donating a surveillance helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force. It expressed disappointment that despite these efforts, the President accused the governor of inaction.
“Governor Fubara’s commitment to security is evident. His administration procured and handed over surveillance equipment to security agencies to safeguard critical infrastructure. These facts must be acknowledged.”
The group warned against further acts of sabotage and advised youths to avoid involvement in economic sabotage that could harm the state’s economy and environment.
The group also rejected reports of plans to appoint Sole Administrators for local government councils, arguing that such appointments are unconstitutional and contradict Supreme Court rulings that prohibit unelected caretaker committees.
“Governor Fubara, in compliance with the Supreme Court ruling nullifying the local government elections, directed Heads of Civil Service to oversee council administration. Any move to impose Sole Administrators is a desperate attempt to hijack the local government system.”
The Simplicity Movement reaffirmed its support for Governor Fubara and called for a return to constitutional democracy in Rivers State.
“We are confident that, in time, the President will realize that he was misinformed about the real situation in Rivers State. We urge all stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and work toward restoring democracy and the rule of law.”
“Our support for the Sole Administrator is conditional on the swift return to democratic governance. Rivers State must not be ruled indefinitely outside the constitution.”
The group concluded by calling on all well-meaning Nigerians, political actors, and stakeholders to reject any attempts to undermine democracy and to work towards peace and stability in Rivers State.
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