Rivers Crisis: Group Seeks UN Intervention To Save Democracy In Nigeria
A civil society group, Save Democracy Vanguard, has written to the United Nations, seeking the global body's intervention in the ongoing crisis in Rivers State. The group, in a letter addressed to the United Nations Secretary-General and signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Ali Mohammed Ali, described the situation in Rivers as a national emergency and accused the Federal Government of allowing the illegal suspension of democracy in Nigeria's oil-rich state.
The crisis in Rivers State has been ongoing, with the declaration of emergency rule in the state. The group warned that the country's democracy is "on the red line" and could collapse if the international community fails to act now. According to the group, the situation in Rivers State is a complete deviation from the democratic process, and the international community must not look away while constitutional order is being dismantled with the silent backing of the federal authorities.
The group's letter reads, "A major Nigerian state has been handed over to the military in broad daylight. The installation of a sole administrator in place of elected officials and the removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara without due process amount to a civilian coup and should be treated as such." The group noted that the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers is an assault on the will of the people, and the sole administrator, Ibok-Eket Ibas, has sacked local government officials and heads of government institutions in the state, ruling by decree.
The crisis in Rivers State has triggered widespread protests, particularly among women who have taken to the streets to demand the reinstatement of Governor Fubara and the restoration of democratic rule. The group noted that the people's mothers, sisters, and daughters in Rivers are leading peaceful demonstrations daily, crying out for justice, democracy, and the return of their elected governor. They are not only defending Fubara but defending the principle that power belongs to the people.
On the economic front, the group said the ongoing crisis has crippled the state and discouraged investment. Businesses are shutting down, workers are afraid, contractors have fled, and the state's economy is at a standstill. No investor wants to operate in a state where the rule of law is suspended, and the constitution is optional.
The group is calling on the UN and all lovers of democracy to step in immediately. Nigeria's democracy is bleeding, and Rivers is the latest victim. If nothing is done, this Rivers experiment will spread to other states, and the country may collapse into anarchy. The people have done their part – now, the international community must not fail them.
The group's call for UN intervention highlights the gravity of the situation in Rivers State and the potential consequences for the country's democracy. The international community's attention is required to ensure that democracy is upheld and the rule of law is respected.
The situation in Rivers State is a test of the country's democratic institutions and the commitment of its leaders to uphold the constitution. The outcome of this crisis will have far-reaching implications for Nigeria's democracy and the future of its people.
In conclusion, the Rivers crisis is a national emergency that requires immediate attention from the international community. The UN's intervention is necessary to ensure that democracy is saved and the people of Rivers State are protected. The group's call for action is a wake-up call for all Nigerians and lovers of democracy to stand up for their rights and demand that their leaders uphold the constitution.
The fate of Nigeria's democracy hangs in the balance, and the international community must act swiftly to prevent a collapse. The people of Rivers State deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the government and the international community to ensure that their rights are protected.
The UN's intervention will send a strong message to the Nigerian government that the international community will not stand idly by while democracy is being eroded. It is time for the government to respect the constitution and uphold the rule of law.
As the situation in Rivers State continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the international community's attention is required to prevent a further escalation of the crisis. The UN's intervention is necessary to ensure that democracy is saved and the people of Rivers State are protected.
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