Rivers crisis: CNG warns of escalation, urges presidential restraint

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has issued warning over the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, warning that former Governor Nyesom Wike’s maneuvers could drag the country into international ridicule.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the CNG cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tread carefully in his dealings with the situation, emphasizing the need for restraint in the face of Wike’s opportunistic politics.

According to the CNG, Wike’s actions, driven by self-interest rather than the welfare of the people, have the potential to create chaos and discord within the region.

“We implore President Tinubu not to allow Wike’s deranged opportunism to overshadow his sense of reasoning and judgment,” the statement read.

The CNG noted that the general acceptance of Wike’s “deranged” and “senile” behavior reflects a deeply polarized political landscape, where personal interests often overshadow substantive discourse.

The group urged President Tinubu to navigate this complex environment with discernment and strength, engaging with Wike’s provocations without succumbing to emotional reactions.

Any misstep, the CNG warned, could lead to widespread unrest within the region.

The group expressed alarm over the eruption of violence in the Niger Delta, just 48 hours after Wike’s provocations led to President Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State.

“This escalation of unrest poses a significant threat to national stability and economic security,” the CNG noted.

The group called on President Tinubu to reflect on the historical context surrounding Wike’s actions, which contributed to the challenges that ultimately led to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s political fall.

“We urge President Tinubu to recognize that Wike’s maneuvers are not representative of the will of the people of Rivers State or the Niger Delta,” the statement read.

Instead, the CNG said, Wike’s actions reflect the dangerous machinations of an individual more interested in personal gain than in the collective good.

The CNG reiterated its call for President Tinubu to exercise caution and wisdom in navigating the complex political landscape of Rivers State, resisting the allure of Wike’s opportunistic politics that threatens to undermine the very fabric of democracy.

As the situation in Rivers State continues to unfold, the CNG has urged all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, political leaders, and the citizenry, to rally around the ideals of peace, unity, and democratic governance.

The group has also called on President Tinubu to take decisive action to restore peace and promote the welfare of all Nigerians.

“We stand ready to support any initiative that seeks to restore peace and promote the welfare of all Nigerians,” the CNG said.