Rivers crisis may threaten national security – Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has raised concerns over the escalating crisis in Rivers State, urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene in resolving the dispute between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
In a statement on Tuesday by her media aide, Israel Arogbonlo, she called on the President to ensure that the minister focuses on his duties in the FCT, allowing his successor to govern Rivers State as mandated by the constitution.
Akpoti-Uduaghan noted that the crisis, marked by violence, intimidation, and alleged electoral malpractices, poses a serious threat to the peace and stability of both the region and the country at large.
The senator stressed the need for immediate presidential intervention to protect lives and property, maintain the neutrality of state institutions, and prevent further escalation of the conflict.
“The situation in Rivers demands urgent attention, and I implore Mr President to take decisive action to prevent further escalation.
“We cannot afford to watch as the crisis deepens, threatening the stability of the region. President Tinubu’s leadership is crucial in resolving this impasse.
“If left unchecked, the crisis may undermine Nigeria’s democratic progress, embolden perpetrators of violence and electoral malpractices, and threaten national security and stability,” Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.