In a recent statement, venerable statesman Edwin Clark has reiterated his reservations regarding President Bola Tinubu’s involvement in the Rivers State crisis. The former brokered a peace deal between the current Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, Clark expressed his belief that Tinubu’s intervention goes against the constitutional framework of the country. As the Convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Clark felt compelled to voice his concerns, emphasizing that he would be remiss as a fatherly figure if he didn’t alert Tinubu to the perceived misdirection.
“While Mr. President is the leader of our nation and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, as a father, I would be neglecting my duty if I failed to point out that this action is contrary to the constitution,” Clark stated.
Highlighting the palpable public discontent surrounding Tinubu’s mediated peace deal, Clark urged President Buhari to reconsider the course of action. “I am pleading with Mr. President not to be swayed solely by the ambitions of one individual. On behalf of the people of the South-South, the Niger Delta, and the Rivers State citizens, I implore Mr. President to rethink the decisions that have been made. Nigerians are not pleased with the current state of affairs,” he passionately expressed.
Clark’s plea hinges on the belief that the national leader should prioritize the overall well-being and sentiments of the citizens over individual ambitions. As the nation watches, the call for a reassessment echoes through the corridors of political discourse, urging a reconsideration of the steps taken in the Rivers State crisis.
