Turmoil at News Central Town Hall Meeting in Rivers State Amid Emergency - NIGERIA PUBLISHERS

Turmoil at News Central Town Hall Meeting in Rivers State Amid Emergency - NIGERIA PUBLISHERS 

Today at 11 AM WAT, News Central’s eagerly awaited Town Hall meeting in Rivers State was disrupted by chaos as opposing groups clashed amid the ongoing state of emergency in the area.

The event aimed to bring together community leaders, stakeholders, and concerned citizens to discuss critical issues such as suspended leadership, pipeline vandalism, and the wider crisis impacting the state. The forum featured a diverse representation, including dignitaries, elder statesmen, civil society members, and youth organisations.

The President of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI), Mr Bright Amewhule, recounted how his party had facilitated the rise of Governor Sim Fubara before he eventually left the party.

However, tensions quickly intensified when participants expressed sharply divergent views on how to address the state’s challenges. The first major dispute arose when Kemwel Ibinabo commented on the alleged influence exerted by former Governor Barr Nyesom Wike.

The discussion soon devolved into heated arguments and interruptions, highlighting the deep political and social divisions within Rivers State. The situation became so volatile that event organisers and security personnel had to step in to calm the crowd.

Another key moment occurred when Hilda Dokubo, chairperson of the Rivers State Labour Party, accused the state of godfatherism, emphasising that it is impossible to have a governor while another individual effectively controls power behind the scenes.

Igo Aguma, former APC Chairman of Rivers State, criticised “crisis merchants” who profit from unrest while claiming to seek peace. He urged these actors to step aside and allow the governor and his predecessor to resolve their differences peacefully. Aguma asserted that certain elements opposed to the state’s progress were behind the ongoing problems, but expressed confidence that the main parties would find a solution.

Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, leader of Pan Niger Delta, echoed this sentiment, stating that the conflict between Governor Sim Fubara and his “boss” could be settled privately. He called on elder statesmen to mediate, stressing that the state’s current leadership is indigenous and that the economy is suffering. He appealed for peace, warning that continued unrest would harm everyone.

Mr. Kayode Akintemi, Managing Director of News Central, closed the session by reaffirming the organisation’s dedication to amplifying the voices of Rivers State residents during these difficult times and pledging to maintain a platform for constructive dialogue and problem-solving.