The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has called for the establishment of an independent Truth and Reconciliation Committee to address the political crisis in Rivers State following the declaration of a State of Emergency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at a world press conference, the Council emphasized that while the declaration of a State of Emergency may be controversial, it presents an opportunity for all parties to reflect and seek lasting peace.
The group urged the federal government and the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibot-Ete Ibas (Rtd), to take steps toward sustainable reconciliation.
The NCSCN proposed that the committee be made up of respected elder statesmen, including former Presidents, past Senate Presidents, religious leaders, top legal minds, and civil society activists. Their mandate would be to investigate the root causes of the crisis, engage key stakeholders, and recommend solutions that would restore peace and stability in the state.
“The political crisis in Rivers State has deep historical roots, and it requires more than just a temporary intervention. A Truth and Reconciliation Committee will ensure a fair and transparent process that will not only resolve the current conflict but also prevent future political instability,” the Council stated.
The crisis, which escalated after the Supreme Court judgment and subsequent political maneuvers, led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of a Sole Administrator.
The Council acknowledged that the decision has been met with mixed reactions but stressed that all efforts should now focus on restoring normalcy.
“We sounded loud note of warning to save this kind of situation we finally now have in Rivers State, but gladiators were busy flexing muscles and showcasing their capabilities and strongholds, uncompromisingly holding on to their views. It is most unfortunate that the parties allowed what we foresaw and forewarned to later play out,” the Council stated.
It explained that the State of Emergency has been declared by the President and no amount of crying and complaining would reverse the situation at this point.
the council said “Anyone embarking on endless condemnation and antagonism would only succeed in whipping up sentiments that would not help in remedying the deteriorated political situation in Rivers State. The best any concerned person should do now is proffering sustainable solutions and practicable steps in managing the State of Emergency for the overall well-being of the people of the State, general interest of our democracy and national development.”
NCSCN therefore called on President Tinubu to ensure that the State of Emergency does not exceed the stipulated six-month period and to guarantee that no political actor is victimized.
The Council further urged the Sole Administrator to remain neutral and prioritize peace-building efforts over political affiliations.
“We appeal to the federal government to place the interests of the people of Rivers State above partisan politics. The success of this intervention will be judged by the level of stability, progress, and harmony achieved by the end of the six months,” the Council concluded.
