HURIWA backs governor Fubara amid Rivers state political turmoil

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has thrown its weight behind Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as he faces politically charged attacks aimed at undermining his leadership.

HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, stated this in a statement sent Peoples Daily on Tuesday,in Abuja

He said despite the tensions, particularly with his former mentor and now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Governor Fubara has continued to focus on infrastructure development and the promotion of democratic values in local governance.

The statement read “HURIWA expressed strong support for Governor Fubara’s plan to conduct local government elections, urging that the process should not be obstructed by remnants of the previous administration appointed by Wike.

“The group emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional mandates, noting that local government administration should be led by democratically elected officials.

“The association criticized the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which it believes is being fueled by external forces.

“HURIWA highlighted the illegality of the recent defection of some members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and expressed concern over the federal government’s role in these developments, particularly the actions of the police, which the group views as unconstitutional.

“A significant point of contention for HURIWA was the police’s controversial takeover of local government secretariats, which the group condemned as an overreach that undermines Governor Fubara’s authority.

“HURIWA called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the Rivers State Police Command remains loyal to the Constitution and the democratically elected governor.

“HURIWA urged all political actors in Rivers State to respect the democratic process and allow Governor Fubara to govern without undue interference.

“The group warned that any destabilization of Rivers State could have serious repercussions for the entire South-South region, given the state’s economic significance.

“HURIWA called on the federal government to cease any actions that could be interpreted as supporting efforts to destabilize Rivers State, stressing that the mandate given to Governor Fubara by the people must be respected.

“The group also advised those with political ambitions to wait until the next election cycle in 2027, rather than causing unnecessary distractions now.”