Renowned Ijaw leader, Edwin Clark, has sounded the alarm bells, cautioning of potential catastrophe if the current situation remains unchecked.
In a bold move, the head of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) penned an open letter to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun, underscoring the critical need for immediate action to quell the brewing crisis and prevent its escalation into a nationwide catastrophe.
Clark stressed the imperative for the police chief to intervene promptly to avert anarchy in Rivers State by halting the activities of House of Assembly members who are unlawfully presenting themselves as legislators.
Citing Section 109 (1g) 2 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, Clark pointed out that the 27 lawmakers automatically forfeited their positions in the Rivers State Assembly upon their announced defection to the APC.
A former senator of the Second Republic, Clark cautioned that the recent unilateral announcement by the speaker and the 26 former assembly members could ignite a breakdown of law and order in Rivers State, with grave ramifications for the entire Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole.
He implored the IGP to take decisive steps to de-escalate the situation, emphasizing the paramount importance of upholding the sanctity of the constitution. Clark reminded the IGP that the 27 former assembly members have relinquished their seats in accordance with constitutional provisions and should not be allowed to masquerade as lawmakers.
Expressing dismay at the former members’ unlawful actions under the protection of uniformed policemen, Clark decried this as a blatant affront to the rule of law.
Appealing to the IGP’s sense of duty, Clark urged him to counsel President Bola Tinubu and other members of the National Security Council to swiftly resolve the crisis and shield Nigeria from international scorn.
Emphasizing the constitution’s significance as the supreme law of the land, Clark reiterated the obligation for all authorities and individuals to abide by its provisions throughout Nigeria.
In a poignant reminder of his dedication to national peace and stability, Clark underscored the gravity of the situation, urging all parties to prioritize the nation’s interests over personal or factional agendas.
He concluded by urging the IGP to restrain the errant assembly members from further provocative actions, emphasizing the pivotal role of law enforcement in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional integrity and preventing chaos.
