President Bola Tinubu has called for strict adherence to the rule of law as a pathway to restoring lasting peace and prosperity in Rivers State. Speaking during a meeting with leaders from the South-South region under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in Abuja on Tuesday, the President emphasized the importance of respecting judicial decisions to uphold democracy and foster harmony.
Addressing the delegation, President Tinubu urged political leaders to prioritize the broader vision of salvaging the region politically and economically. He stressed that the judiciary’s interpretations of the Constitution must be respected to ensure stability and progress.
“I am here by the grace of God, appreciating your support, prayers, and concern. I campaigned for this position and begged for the job. I must do it with all my heart, whatever it takes. I will make sure we achieve our promises and goals,” President Tinubu stated.
Commitment to Niger Delta Development
The President acknowledged the Niger Delta’s critical role as the economic backbone of Nigeria, describing it as “the goose that lays the golden egg.” He assured the leaders of his administration’s commitment to addressing the region’s challenges, particularly the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
“I have been on the issue for quite some time. I foresaw the crisis festering for too long before I intervened. We reached an agreement, a written agreement, and both parties signed,” he said, urging stakeholders to make sacrifices and recognize the Constitution as the ultimate guide.
President Tinubu expressed confidence in the judiciary, stating, “This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I should not be here as President without the rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. Once the court has spoken, that is it.”
He called on the leaders to intervene and counsel the Rivers State governor to pursue peace and stability. “Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor. Pursue the path of peace and stability,” he added.
Focus on Community Development and Economic Growth
President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s priority on community development, particularly projects that positively impact citizens. He commended the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for their efforts in driving development in the region.
“Community development is very close to my heart. The leader of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, is doing a great job and should be encouraged to do more. He is your son. We are all proud of him,” the President said.
He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the coastal road initiative, which is expected to create new economic opportunities for the Niger Delta and the nation. “We are already working with international companies to build ports in the Niger Delta States,” he noted.
PANDEF Leaders Laud President’s Efforts
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, thanked President Tinubu for his commitment to the South-South region. “Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support. God bless Nigeria and your government,” he said.
Obong Victor Attah, former governor of Akwa Ibom State and co-chair of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, called for further intervention in the Rivers State crisis, warning that instability in the state could have far-reaching consequences for national peace. “Instability there has far-reaching consequences on the peace and stability of the nation,” he said.
Attah praised the President’s reforms, including power devolution and regional development recognition, and urged a focus on infrastructure, seaports, environmental sustainability, and fiscal federalism in the South-South.
The PANDEF delegation included former governors, legislators, ministers, traditional leaders, religious figures, and representatives of youth and women groups.
A Call for Unity and Progress
President Tinubu concluded by thanking the delegation for their support and reaffirming his administration’s determination to reset the economy and achieve sustainable growth. “We cannot achieve Eldorado in one day. But we are on the path to it. We will succeed by the grace of God Almighty,” he said.
