By Bayero Ade
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating violence in the state’s political arena.
The governor made this promise on Tuesday while receiving the report of the State Commission of Inquiry on the destruction of local government secretariats. The report was presented by the commission’s chairman, Justice Ibiwengi Minakiri, at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara assured that the recommendations of the commission would be fully implemented, regardless of those involved. He condemned the persistent political violence, describing it as “unreasonable,” and emphasized that politics should be a peaceful contest of ideas, not a battleground.
“Ideas, not violence, should define our politics. There are no permanent enemies or friends in this arena, only the shared goal of progress,” the governor stated. He also commended the commission for their dedication in completing the assignment despite facing legal and other challenges.
Justice Minakiri detailed the commission’s investigative process, which included visits to affected local government areas such as Khana, Eleme, Ikwerre, Emohua, and Obio/Akpor. These visits helped to authenticate claims made in the submitted memoranda.
The commission’s findings, compiled into four volumes, include memoranda, exhibits, records of proceedings, and key recommendations. Justice Minakiri urged the governor to act on the report to ensure lasting peace in the state, while noting that some individuals named in the findings refused to appear before the commission to defend themselves.
The inquiry, completed within the stipulated 30 days and submitted on November 28, marks a significant step in addressing violence in Rivers State politics. Governor Fubara’s commitment to implementing the report is seen as a bold move toward fostering a more peaceful and democratic political environment.
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