Rivers: Obi Urges Warring Factions to Sheathe Swords

The 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on the warring leaders in Rivers State to prioritize the welfare of the poor and vulnerable amidst the ongoing political crisis in the state.

In a detailed message shared on his social media platform on Tuesday, Obi expressed deep concern over the situation, describing it as a stark example of how democracy is failing to serve the people.

He stated, “It is unfortunate that 60 years after independence and nearly 30 years of our celebrated unbroken civil rule, our democracy is still marred by undemocratic practices and values. A significant percentage of our elections are deeply flawed—manipulated to serve the interests of a select few rather than reflecting the true will of the people. Governance at most levels does not reflect the genuine values and aspirations of the people because the welfare of the citizens is often neglected in practice.”

Obi further emphasized that the crisis in Rivers State is not about improving critical development indices such as education, healthcare, or poverty alleviation, but rather stems from reasons that do not benefit the people of Rivers State or Nigeria as a whole.

“Looking at the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, we see yet another glaring example of how our democracy and governance are not serving their purpose—the welfare of the people. The real losers in this crisis are the people—their welfare and the future of the society their children will live in,” he added.

The former presidential candidate appealed to all parties involved to reflect on their roles as leaders and prioritize the suffering of the people.

“My respectful appeal to all those involved is to reconsider their positions and reflect on the grace God has bestowed upon them as leaders. They must think about the suffering people of Rivers State and work towards a better future for their children,” Obi urged.

He also called on well-meaning Nigerians and the Federal Government to intervene in the spirit of true democracy and good governance to restore normalcy and bring an end to the crisis.

“My commitment remains to continuously remember them in earnest prayers and to advocate for their well-being. I also appeal to well-meaning Nigerians and the Federal Government to use their offices to restore normalcy and bring an end to this crisis. A new Nigeria is POssible!”