A political advocacy group known as the Simplicity Movement has issued a strong warning, pledging to oppose an alleged scheme by the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aimed at impeaching Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
This maneuver is reportedly tied to ongoing tensions between the governor and the 27 lawmakers from the state House of Assembly.
During a press conference held in Port Harcourt, the group’s spokesperson, Kelly Rufus, raised concerns over the purported plot, claiming it poses a significant risk to the ongoing development and tranquility in the state.
Rufus accused PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum and Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu of orchestrating the impeachment attempt, asserting that such actions not only target Governor Fubara personally but also challenge the democratic will of the Rivers State populace.
He stated, “The recent claims made by opposition lawmakers in the House of Representatives appear to be a strategic effort to destabilize the PDP from the inside, possibly in collusion with certain members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).”
According to Rufus, these developments could represent a profound betrayal of the trust millions of Nigerians have placed in the PDP, which is expected to provide a robust counterbalance to the current government’s policies that may not align with the needs of the citizens.
“We refuse to remain passive while a handful of individuals, motivated by self-interest, threaten the progress and growth of our state. Governor Fubara was elected to enact positive change and deliver effective governance. His mandate is inviolable, and any attempt to undermine it is an affront to our democratic values,” he asserted.
Rufus expressed particular concern regarding allegations that Damagum and Anyanwu are obstructing the efforts of the PDP’s National Legal Adviser, who is trying to prevent the recently sacked pro-Wike lawmakers, who have shifted allegiance to the APC, from undermining the PDP’s legal standing in an ongoing court case.
He highlighted that a Rivers State High Court has already issued a temporary restraining order against these lawmakers, warning that any attempt to weaken the party’s legal position would threaten the state’s stability.
Additionally, Rufus pointed fingers at former Governor Nyesom Wike, who is perceived as the main architect behind the alleged plans to remove Governor Fubara, following his diminished influence over the current administration.
He emphasized, “The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria explicitly limits a state governor’s tenure to eight years. Any effort to extend this period is not only unconstitutional but an affront to our democratic process.”
Rufus remarked, “If Minister Wike had wished to extend his own tenure during his governorship, he had the opportunity to propose constitutional amendments. However, any current attempts to exert control over the state through proxies will encounter fierce opposition.”
The Simplicity Movement called upon those instigating disruption in Rivers State to prioritize the collective well-being of the community over personal ambitions. They asserted, “Rivers State is on a trajectory of growth, and we will not permit anyone to derail this progress.”
Furthermore, the group urged the PDP Board of Trustees to take decisive action beyond mere visits to Governor Fubara, advocating for a restoration of his rightful leadership position within the party to reinforce confidence and unity.
“This is essential to preserving the integrity and strength of the PDP amid these challenges. The Board should also ensure that the National Working Committee holds accountable those involved in this scheme, particularly Umar Damagum and Samuel Anyanwu, for their alleged collusion with Wike and his cohorts, who threaten political stability in Rivers State.”
Lastly, the group appealed to President Bola Tinubu for renewed intervention, urging him to address the situation with the Minister of Federal Capital Territory to foster peace and political stability within Rivers State.
