The Ijaw Diaspora Council (IDC), has congratulated Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo on his appointment as Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly.
This is just as they noted that history, was made on the 8th of May 2024 when he [Oko-Jumbo] replicated the feat of the late A. D. W. Jumbo, by bringing further honor and timely one to the image of the great and Ancient Bonny Kingdom through his astute political stewardship and maneuvers that led to his enthronement as the Rt. Honorable Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The Ijaw Diaspora disclosed this in a statement jointly signed by Honorable (Mrs.) Gesiere Brisibe-Dorgu, Chairperson, Ijaw Diaspora Council; Professor (Amb.) Mondy Selle Gold, President, Ijaw Diaspora Council and Amadabo of Ijaw Diaspora; and Chief (Barr) Emmanuel Ezekiel-Hart, Head Legal Affairs & Vice President Ijaw Diaspora Council Asia-Pacific
They explained that if the Speaker had not merited the confidence of his colleagues and of the Governor of Rivers State, such an achievement would have been impossible.
According to them, “You pulled through despite all odds to exhibit your political mastery and bring Bonny Local Government into the limelight in Rivers State, Nigeria, and the world at large.
“We take greater pride in your emergence, seeing it as a cornerstone for fostering governance stability in Rivers State and nurturing a lasting, harmonious relationship between the Executive Governor and the State House of Assembly. We are indeed grateful for this achievement, which has made us all proud as Ijaw Diasporans and particularly the good people of Bonny and Opobo extraction of River State”, they said.
They explained that they have noted with pride and admiration how the Speaker has doggedly ensured that he managed the State political crisis with humane and passionate appeal that serves only for a peaceful Rivers State under the elected incumbent governor and the interest of Bonny Local Government.
Furthermore, the Ijaw Diaspora reaffirmed the calls of the people of Rivers State that Governor Siminilayi Fubara must be allowed to govern the state in peace, exercising his mandates and powers as provided under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in his capacity as the duly elected and sworn-in Governor of Rivers State.
In their words, “IDC comprises concerned citizens and stakeholders who profoundly care about Rivers State, the Niger Delta Region, and the well-being of our nation. Recent events have shown a growing divide within our political landscape, and it is with heavy hearts that we witness the animosity and discord, reminiscent of historical parallels, that has emerged in our Rivers State.
“The IDC acknowledges that political dynamics are ever-changing; once it elevates an incumbent governor or president, it stands steadfastly beside them, serving as a pillar of support rather than a source of division or discord. This unwavering solidarity ensures focused efforts towards delivering the dividends of democracy to all citizens of Rivers State who support their elected leader.
“As we wholeheartedly stand by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, we implore everyone to collaborate with him at his own pace and within his constitutional mandate, enabling him to effectively serve the people of Rivers State without fetters”, they said.
Continuing, the Ijaw Diaspora noted that in these challenging times, it becomes imperative for all Ijaw individuals, along with friends of the Grand Bonny Kingdom, to uphold the foundational values that unites them as a cohesive society within Rivers State, regardless of ethnic backgrounds.
“Despite our varied viewpoints and convictions, it remains incumbent upon us to engage with these disparities in a manner characterized by respect, empathy, and receptiveness. By fostering constructive dialogue and demonstrating a willingness to heed differing perspectives, we can identify shared interests and engage in cooperative efforts to devise solutions that advance the collective interests of Rivers State.
“Let us not forget that the vibrancy of a healthy democracy thrives on the diversity of thought and a robust exchange of ideas. This very diversity has defined our nation and has been instrumental in our ability to surmount countless challenges throughout our history, particularly in Rivers State. It is a strength that we must cherish and protect, rather than allowing it to become a source of division”, they emphasize.
IDC implored all parties involved in the current discord, as fellow citizens and members of the Niger Delta, to join hands with them in advocating for calm and unity, adding that it is their firm belief that political leaders, both past and present, including the immediate past governor and Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, and other stakeholders should work for or allow the current administration, led by His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, to effectively conduct the affairs of Rivers State.
While calling on past Governors to refrain from instigating unnecessary tension and conflict that could undermine peace, unity, and development,they advised all leaders in no uncertain terms to engage in conversations aimed at bridging the gaps between the citizens, rather than widening them.
“Let us remain mindful of the immense power held by our words and actions, understanding their potential to either heal or infest on the wound”, they said. “Together, we can serve as a beacon of hope and an example for our fellow citizens, demonstrating that even in the face of political differences, we can find a way to coexist harmoniously”.
The Ijaw Diaspora called on Rivers people to “rise above discord and show the world the strength and resilience of our democratic ideals, reaffirming our commitment to the greater good of Rivers State and our shared vision for peace and development.
“Honorable Speaker, we acknowledge that the task ahead is enormous, however, we have no doubt of your capacity to deliver your legislative responsibilities to the good people of River State. We urge you to be vigilant and focused to retain the confidence that propelled you to the exalted position of the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
“We, therefore, sincerely celebrate with you, the entire people of Bonny, and Rivers State. We shall stand by you and support you to serve honorably as elected Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Not just because you are an Ijaw man but also because your election was legal and constitutionally authorized and protected.
“The Ijaw Diaspora is proudly in support of you, and we urge you to work amicably with the incumbent governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara”, they concluded.
