Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, expressed deep concern over the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, warning of potential ramifications if the conflict is not promptly resolved.
George, who spoke on Thursday in an interview on Arise TV, monitored by our correspondent, stressed the critical need for a peaceful resolution, cautioning that the unrest could escalate and affect other regions across the nation if left unchecked.
“Rivers is a very, very important state electoral-wise. The crisis can spread to other parts of the country. I want to plead with all sides in the interest of this nation.
“This is not the time to fight; our economic situation is terrible. People are hungry and angry,” he said.
Highlighting the imperative role of leadership within the PDP, George called upon the party’s leadership to step in and actively address the unfolding crisis in Rivers State, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention to avert further turmoil.
The ongoing discord in Rivers State, particularly within the 32-member assembly, has escalated in recent weeks, marked by a bitter feud between key political figures. The conflict primarily involves Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Wike.
The crisis, exacerbated by accusations, attempted impeachments, and defections, led to a split in the assembly into factions aligned with either Fubara or Wike. The controversy deepened following the demolition of the assembly complex, further entrenching the divide between the factions.
Moreover, the recent defection of 27 PDP assembly members to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declared vacant by one faction’s leader, Edison Ehie, has intensified the turmoil.