…as Ijaw National Congress condemns destruction of suspended gov’s billboards
Nigerian governors elected on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, have reportedly gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State, for a crucial two-day meeting to discuss key issues, including the political crisis in Rivers State after Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s suspension and the state of emergency declaration.
The meeting, which began on Sunday, is also expected to cover the party’s legal challenge against the Federal Government’s decision at the Supreme Court, the internal crisis in the PDP’s South-South zone, and other national matters.
Meanwhile, former militant leader and ex-MEND commander, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, broke his silence during his 54th birthday celebration in Gbaramatu, Delta State. He expressed confidence that Governor Fubara would be reinstated and reassured his people of continued support for the Ijaw Nation.
“I have never fought and lost a battle,” Tompolo said, urging his supporters to remain calm and trust the process.
He also called on Nigerians, particularly the Ijaw people, to continue supporting President Bola Tinubu, whom he described as capable of bringing positive change.
As tensions persist in Rivers State, former House of Representatives member Dr. Farah Dagogo had filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt against President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Etteh Ibas (rtd). Dagogo is challenging the legality of Fubara’s suspension and the subsequent appointments of administrators in the state’s 23 local government areas.
The court has granted permission for the defendants to be served through substituted means and scheduled May 12 for the hearing.
In a related development, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has condemned the destruction of Governor Fubara’s billboards and official portraits across the state.
INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, described the act as “barbaric” and accused the current state administration of trying to provoke violence to justify the emergency rule.
Okaba also questioned the legitimacy of the sole administrator’s actions, including attempts to present a new budget and appoint officials, calling them unconstitutional.
He called for the immediate dismissal of all unlawfully appointed administrators.
