Coalition Urges Rivers State Leaders to Sign New Peace Agreement Within 90 Days

The Coalition for Democracy and Development (CDD) has called on key figures in the ongoing Rivers State political crisis to put aside personal interests and commit to a new peace agreement within 90 days.

In a statement released by CDD convener, Dr. George Ifure, the group warned that if Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, fail to sign the agreement, they will be held responsible for any further instability in the state.

The coalition described the crisis as a failure of leadership, blaming both the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Wike, and Governor Fubara for prioritizing their political ambitions over the well-being of Rivers residents.

According to the statement, several actions taken by both leaders have exacerbated political tensions, ultimately leading to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. This decision resulted in the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the State Assembly.

The CDD also criticized the failure of an earlier peace agreement signed by Wike and Fubara in December 2023, stating that the situation has only worsened since then. 

The coalition issued a strong appeal:

• Wike and Fubara must set aside their differences and work towards signing a new peace pact within 90 days.
• President Tinubu should take decisive action and use this moment to demonstrate bold and visionary leadership in resolving the crisis.
• All stakeholders should work towards a peaceful and democratic resolution that restores stability and governance in Rivers State.

CDD emphasized that the interests of the Rivers people should come first, urging all parties involved to prioritize peace and democratic governance.