A socio-political group in Rivers State, known as the Simplicity Movement, has urged the newly appointed Sole Administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), to focus on promoting economic growth, improving public welfare, and maintaining peace.
The group also expressed its full support for his leadership in bringing lasting peace and development to the state.
In a statement signed by its National Leader, High Chief Amb. Sobomabo Jackrich, the group condemned a recent pipeline explosion, describing it as an act of sabotage intended to disrupt the state’s peace.
However, they stressed that Rivers State should not be governed indefinitely outside the constitution.
The Simplicity Movement criticized the alleged appointment of sole administrators for local government areas and reaffirmed its support for Governor Siminialayi Fubara.
They argued that the governor’s suspension was based on misinformation given to President Bola Tinubu.
The group welcomed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, stating that his appointment reflects the President’s trust in his experience as a military administrator.
They urged him to perform his duties with fairness and to uphold his promise to act as a stabilizing force rather than a partisan figure.
Contrary to reports of insecurity, the group insisted that Rivers State remains peaceful despite ongoing political disputes.
They condemned false narratives portraying the state as chaotic and urged the public to ignore such misinformation.
The group strongly opposed the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly, calling it unconstitutional and a threat to democracy.
They argued that while the President has the authority to declare a state of emergency under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, he does not have the power to suspend an elected governor.
They described the action as an abuse of power and called on President Tinubu to reverse the decision and reinstate Governor Fubara.
They also criticized the role of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in the crisis, arguing that if fairness was truly being upheld, he should have faced sanctions as well.
Expressing concern about recent explosions at oil and gas facilities in the state, the group claimed these incidents were deliberate acts of sabotage aimed at justifying an extended state of emergency.
They called on the Sole Administrator and security agencies to investigate the explosions and hold those responsible accountable.
The group highlighted Governor Fubara’s previous efforts to protect oil installations, including donating a surveillance helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force.
They expressed disappointment that, despite these efforts, the President accused the governor of failing to address security concerns.
The Simplicity Movement warned against further acts of sabotage and urged young people to avoid participating in activities that could harm the state’s economy and environment.
They also rejected any plans to appoint sole administrators for local government councils, arguing that such actions violate Supreme Court rulings against unelected caretaker committees. The group supported Governor Fubara’s decision to allow Heads of Civil Service to oversee council administration following the nullification of local government elections.
Reaffirming their loyalty to Governor Fubara, the group called for a return to constitutional governance in Rivers State. They expressed hope that President Tinubu would eventually recognize the truth about the situation and urged all parties to reduce tensions and work toward restoring democracy.
The group concluded by stating that their support for the Sole Administrator depends on a quick return to democratic governance.
They called on Nigerians and political stakeholders to reject any attempts to undermine democracy and to work toward peace and stability in Rivers State.
