Rivers Crisis: CNG Fears Escalation, Calls For Presidential Restraint

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has expressed deep concerns regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and the implications of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent actions and decisions in this context.

In a statement by the national coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the group said it finds it imperative to caution the President to tread carefully in his dealings with the situation, particularly in light of Nyesom Wike, the former governor of the state, advancing cynical interests.

“Wike has demonstrated a troubling propensity for opportunism, leveraging his political influence to create chaos and discord within the region. His actions, driven by self-interest rather than the welfare of the people, have the potential to drag the entire country and its judicial establishment into a state of international derision. We implore President Tinubu not to allow Wike’s deranged opportunism to overshadow his sense of reasoning and judgment,” the CNG said.

It said that there is general acceptance that Wike has a deeply polarised political landscape, where personal interests often overshadow substantive discourse, adding that it is imperative for President Tinubu to navigate this complex environment with discernment and strength.

“Engaging with Wike’s provocations without succumbing to emotional reactions is essential; any misstep could lead to widespread unrest within the region. The potential for escalated uprisings underscores the necessity for a measured response, prioritising dialogue over confrontation.

“Instead of allowing Wike’s rhetoric to dictate policy, Tinubu should focus on fostering unity and addressing the underlying grievances that fuel discontent.

By doing so, he can reinforce his leadership while mitigating the risk of exacerbating tensions.

“It is alarming to note that just 48 hours after Wike’s provocations led to President Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, the entire Niger Delta has erupted into violence. Reports indicate that oil installations, vital to the nation’s economy, have been targeted and destroyed.

“This escalation of unrest is not merely a localised issue; it poses a significant threat to national stability and economic security. The actions of a single individual should not dictate the trajectory of an entire region or the policies of our nation,” it said.

It called on the president to reflect on the historical context surrounding Wike, who, along with others, played a significant part in the tumultuous tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan, contributing to the challenges that ultimately led to Jonathan’s political fall. “President Tinubu must remain vigilant regarding the barrage of negative commentary that has surfaced in recent hours since the declaration of emergency in Rivers State. This scrutiny not only reflects public sentiment but also serves as a cautionary signal against the potential pitfalls of aligning too closely with individuals such as Wike, whose past actions have raised concerns,” it said.

It urged Tinubu to maintain a clear boundary, ensuring that the burdens of Wike’s controversies and the animosities he has cultivated do not encumber his own leadership.

“We urge President Tinubu to recognise that Wike’s manoeuvres are not representative of the will of the people of Rivers State or the Niger Delta. Instead, they reflect the dangerous machinations of an individual more interested in personal gain than the collective good. The President must align his actions with the principles of democracy and the rule of law rather than succumbing to the whims of a self-serving politician.

“The challenge of addressing the inflated ego of Nyesom Wike adds an intriguing layer to Tinubu’s leadership. By fostering unity and collaboration, Tinubu has the opportunity to not only mitigate Wike’s assertiveness but also to steer the nation towards a more cohesive and productive political environment. The world awaits decisive actions that will reflect Tinubu’s commitment to effective governance and the broader aspirations of the Nigerian populace,” the statement reads.