By Mandy Tina
A sociopolitical group in Rivers State, known as the Rivers Women Unite for SIM, have called for peace and tranquility in the state.
The group of women took to the streets of Port Harcourt in a peace walk to speak against the current political situation in the state.
According to them the crises could cause security challenges in the state while calling on political actors to respect the office of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Led by a former Commissioner for Environment, Professor Roseline Konya, cautioned politicians against using their ambitions to cause unrest in the state. She maintained that there cannot be two governors at a time; therefore, Fubara should be allowed to govern in peace.
Konya called on all lovers of peace to join in building a better Rivers State.
“In view of the political situation in the state, we demand genuine peace and ask respect for the office of the state governor, as enshrined in the constitution. We affirm our resolve to totally support the government, led by Fubara, in his effort to protect Rivers State and actualize the dreams and aspirations of our people.
“As mothers, we condemn violent activities in the state and warn those who perpetuate them in order to further their political or other ambitions to stop forthwith, as we will not tolerate them anymore”
“We also call on individuals who undermine the office of the governor to desist from such acts. It is our resolve that every form of acrimony in the state endangers the dignity of Rivers people and the glory of Rivers State.
“We believe in peace and we salute our amiable, courageous and God-sent Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, for choosing peace over chaos which is the ultimate act of strength. We also commend his peaceful disposition and people-oriented style of governance which our state needs most.
“Our aim is to appeal to the hearts and consciences of Rivers people to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance. “We urge Rivers people not to be discouraged but to join in the collective effort to build a prosperous state.”
They however assured Rivers people that they will continue to embark on activities including sensitization and mobilization until genuine and lasting peace finally comes to stay in Rivers State.
Responding on behalf of the governor, a former member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Evans Bipi, said the walk is well expected in the face of political crises in the state.
He assured the women that the present administration is resolute in transforming the state.
