The Rivers Bridge Initiative, a non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting good governance and democratic values in Rivers State, has thrown its weight behind Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s stance on the Rivers State House of Assembly.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Tonye Barcanista, the group declared that the Martin Amaewhule group lacks legitimacy to parade themselves as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, having willingly abandoned their seats following their defection to the opposition All Progressive Congress. Therefore, they should not be recognized as the authentic representatives of the people of Rivers State, in line with section 109 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“We stand solidly behind Governor Fubara in his efforts to ensure that the will of the people is respected and upheld,” the statement read. “The Amaewhule group’s claim to legitimacy is baseless and should be disregarded by all well-meaning individuals and organizations. They willingly abandoned their seats following their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressive Congress.”
The group called on the people of Rivers State to remain calm and focused, assuring them that the present distraction against the government and people of the state by certain individuals will soon be a thing of the past in favor of democracy and the rule of law.
“We urge all stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding, as we work together to build a better future for our dear state,” the statement concluded. “We also urge the people of Rivers State to continue to support and pray for the success of the government.”
Signed
Tonye Barcanista
National Publicity Secretary, RBI
