Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson and ex-director-general of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council, has labeled the ongoing leadership crisis in Rivers State as a “tragic situation,” stressing the urgent need for a political resolution.
Addressing journalists in Lagos on Sunday, Okupe expressed concern over the unfolding events in Rivers State.
“The current trajectory in Rivers is perilous, but as a seasoned politician, I advocate for a political solution,” he remarked.
The state has been embroiled in a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The rift has divided the State House of Assembly, resulting in lawmakers aligned with each faction electing different speakers.
Recently, lawmakers loyal to Wike defected from the ruling PDP to the APC, while some cabinet members loyal to Fubara resigned.
In May, the Port Harcourt Division of the Rivers State High Court barred the defected lawmakers from acting as assembly members, but this was overturned by the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal on Thursday, reinstating the 25 assembly members.
Okupe attributed the crisis to a disregard for rules and laws, suggesting that while the judiciary could play a corrective role, a political resolution remains paramount.
“This is a tragic situation caused by our failure to uphold the rule of law. If we adhere strictly to our laws, such crises would not arise,” he remarked.
Highlighting the efficacy of political solutions, Okupe underscored that political disagreements could be resolved through dialogue and reconciliation of conflicting interests.
“In my extensive experience in politics, I have found that almost any political disagreement can be resolved through dialogue. Politics revolves around interests—understanding the interests of all parties and finding common ground is key,” he concluded.
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