A member of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has sought to allay concerns over the political turmoil in Rivers State, insisting that the ongoing crisis is under control and does not pose a serious threat to governance.
Agbese, who represents Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, made the remarks amid rising tension following the Rivers State House of Assembly’s move to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara over allegations of gross misconduct, including financial impropriety.
Speaking on Arise News on Thursday, the lawmaker described the impeachment process as part of the challenges associated with political realignment, cautioning against sensationalising the situation.
According to him, the disagreements in the state are largely a fallout of recent defections by the governor and several lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The situation is manageable,” Agbese said. “What we are seeing is partly the result of political transition. Some of these tensions are rooted in old political habits inherited from the former party, rather than the guiding principles of the APC.”
Agbese, who also serves as Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, noted that the APC is built on internal cohesion, peaceful engagement and effective collaboration between the executive and legislature, values he said are evident at the federal level.
He urged political stakeholders in Rivers State to move beyond past grievances and fully embrace what he described as the cooperative and stability-driven ethos of the ruling party.
“All actors must discard lingering rivalries and align with the progressive ideals of the APC manifesto. That is the only way to ensure harmonious governance and deliver meaningful development to the people of Rivers State,” he stated.
As tensions continue to simmer, the federal lawmaker appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene promptly to prevent further escalation.
“I sincerely call on Mr President to step in swiftly and guide all parties towards lasting unity and peace. Rivers State deserves stability, and I believe it will ultimately achieve it,” Agbese said.
