In response to the recent outbreak of violence and property destruction at local government secretariats in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has established a seven-member panel to conduct a thorough investigation. This action comes in light of a series of violent incidents that have raised significant concerns regarding political stability in the region.
Formation of the Panel
On October 8, 2024, Governor Fubara inaugurated the panel at the executive chamber of the Government House in Port Harcourt. The panel is tasked with uncovering the underlying causes of the violence and identifying individuals responsible for the attacks on the local government areas (LGAs).
During the inauguration, Fubara emphasized his commitment to restoring peace, stating, “We will not allow ill-guided youths and sponsored political thugs to turn Rivers into a hub of violence without facing consequences.” He underscored the importance of holding accountable those involved, regardless of their status.
Objectives of the Panel
The primary objectives of the newly formed panel include:
- Investigating the immediate and remote causes of the violence.
- Identifying individuals and groups responsible for the attacks on local government secretariats.
- Proposing measures to prevent future incidents of violence and destruction of public property.
Governor Fubara expressed confidence that the panel’s findings could significantly deter further violence, remarking, “If we are right, it is going to be the end of further destruction of public property in the state.”
Composition of the Panel
The panel is chaired by Judge Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, who brings judicial experience to the investigation. Other members include:
- Inyingi Brown (Secretary)
- Uzor Ikenga (Counselor)
- Felicia Nwoke
- Blessing Didia
- Samuel Egbe
- Venerable Alex Usifor
The panel has been given a deadline of one month to submit its report.
Context of Recent Violence
The establishment of the panel follows a spate of violent incidents on October 7, during which armed individuals set fire to sections of three local government secretariats in Emohua, Eleme, and Ikwerre. This violence reportedly resulted in the deaths of five people, with the attackers attempting to obstruct elected officials from resuming their duties.
These violent incidents have emerged in the aftermath of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) elections held on October 5, where 23 chairmanships and 319 councillorship seats were contested. The Action Peoples Party (APP) emerged victorious in 22 of the LGAs, while the Action Alliance (AA) won one seat.
Legal Controversies Surrounding the Elections
The local government elections were marred by controversy, with conflicting court orders leading to tensions between major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Despite a federal high court ruling barring security agencies from aiding the election process, Governor Fubara proceeded with the voting, which has raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
The panel’s findings will likely address both the recent violence and the legal controversies surrounding the elections, seeking to provide clarity and propose solutions to restore peace in the region.
Future Plans
The inauguration of the seven-member panel by Governor Siminalayi Fubara is a critical step towards addressing the violence that has plagued Rivers State. By investigating the root causes and holding those responsible accountable, the panel aims to pave the way for a more stable and peaceful political environment in the state. The upcoming report will be pivotal in guiding future actions to prevent similar occurrences.
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Written By Fortune Davidson