CSOs, APC leaders urge National Assembly’s intervention in Rivers Assembly crisis

Civil society organisations (CSOs), media professionals and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have called for constitutional intervention in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. They urged the National Assembly to consider taking over the legislative functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly in line with Section 11 of the Constitution. Speaking […]

Civil society organisations (CSOs), media professionals and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have called for constitutional intervention in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.

They urged the National Assembly to consider taking over the legislative functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly in line with Section 11 of the Constitution.

Speaking with journalists after a one-week rally at the APC Secretariat in Abuja on Friday, the groups expressed concern over developments in the Rivers State House of Assembly, which they said have deepened political tensions and uncertainty in the state.

Present at the press conference were the National Leader and National Secretary of the APC Leaders Forum, Engr. Ibrahim Danjuma and Elder Akpan Ekpeyong.

The CSOs were represented by their Convener, Comrade Ifeanyi Okorie, and Director of Programmes, Dr. Maryann Douglas, while media professionals were represented by their Chairman, Mr. Collins Akpofure.

The groups said Rivers State was facing a constitutional challenge and warned that the ongoing political disagreements could further destabilise democratic governance if not properly addressed.

They commended the Rivers State Chief Judge for declining to constitute a probe panel, noting that the decision was based on existing court orders.

According to them, no formal finding of gross misconduct has so far been made against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The groups also expressed concern about procedural disagreements between the executive and the Rivers State House of Assembly, which they said have made legislative activities difficult.

Based on this, they urged the National Assembly to invoke Section 11(4) of the Constitution to assume the legislative functions of the state assembly, in order to restore stability and allow normal governance to continue.

The APC Leaders Forum and civil society groups also said that political differences among lawmakers have contributed to the current situation.

They appealed for dialogue and adherence to constitutional processes to resolve the impasse.

The coalition said it would continue to engage peacefully with relevant authorities until a political solution is reached.

They called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at preserving democracy and maintaining peace in Rivers State.

The groups concluded by reiterating their commitment to democratic principles and constitutional order.