PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: In a fervent and charged press conference held on December 19th, 2023, Chief (Dr.) Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, the prominent leader of the Ijaw nation, sternly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention in the ongoing Rivers State crisis. Commending President Tinubu for heeding calls to mediate, Chief Clark expressed strong disapproval of the terms of settlement emerging from the reconciliatory meeting.
Chief Clark vehemently contested the composition of the meeting attendees, highlighting its one-sided nature in favor of Nyesome Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He described the resolutions reached as “unconstitutional, absurd, and obnoxious,” citing concerns that the directives issued by President Tinubu contravened the country’s laws and disrespected the sanctity of the Constitution.
The chief took issue with several directives, particularly focusing on the forced return of defecting House of Assembly members and the reinstatement of resigned Commissioners. He emphasized the disregard for legal processes, asserting that President Tinubu’s actions overrode the Constitution and undermined the country’s democratic foundation.
Pointing out instances of past political history involving Nyesome Wike’s use of federal power, Chief Clark accused Wike of wielding excessive authority during his tenure as Governor and Minister, expressing concern that such behavior was now being enforced upon Governor Siminialayi Fubara.
Clark criticized Fubara for allegedly yielding to these directives, calling it a betrayal of the people’s trust.
The chief vowed to challenge these actions legally and urged the people of Rivers State, especially the Ijaws, to resist what he termed as an oppressive imposition. Clark cautioned against allowing political patronage to dismantle democracy, citing the need for constitutional adherence and legal means to combat the current crisis.
In a resolute tone, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark concluded the conference by announcing his intent to face the unfolding political consequences, urging calm among aggrieved youths and reiterating a commitment to combat what he labeled as oppressive actions against Rivers State.
The Ijaw leader’s stance emphasized a strong determination to confront what he perceived as a threat to democracy, signaling an impending legal battle against what he termed the “hydra-headed monster” of oppression in the state.
