Bode George, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to reconcile and restore peace in Rivers State after a series of politically charged incidents in recent weeks.
Tensions have been rising in the state due to the fallout between Fubara and Wike, which has fueled unrest.
The latest incident occurred on Monday when several local government secretariats were set on fire, coinciding with the day newly elected local government officials were supposed to begin their duties.
During an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, George expressed concern over the worsening situation in the oil-rich state and urged for a resolution that prioritizes peace and stability.
The elder statesman also highlighted the need for party unity, stressing that Governor Fubara, as the current leader of the PDP in Rivers State, requires the full support of all members to succeed in his administration.
George said, “Justice is, who is the leader of the party in the state? It is not the minister, it is this governor.
“So, we have to stand by him – the beauty of it is he stated categorically that he wasn’t leaving the party and then they carried out this election.”
The PDP chieftain explained that he and other members of the PDP Board of Trustees have made some attempts to reconcile both Wike and Fubara.
He further stated, “I spoke with the chairman of the board of trustees and then made an attempt with a group of BOT members to visit Fubara to listen to his side and then after I spoke with Wike that he should give an appointment that we are coming to see him.
“He told me that after he returns from China he will be ready to meet with them. Unfortunately, they have been there but I have not been, so I don’t know what the outcome is.”
He asserted that the party’s BOT is responsible for weighing in when there are issues like this.