The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has weighed in on the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, urging the leaders involved to consider the suffering of the people.
In a detailed tweet on Tuesday, Obi described the situation as an example of democracy failing to serve the people effectively.
“It is unfortunate that 60 years after independence and nearly 30 years of unbroken civil rule, our democracy is still plagued by undemocratic practices and values,” he stated.
Obi criticized the country’s electoral process, arguing that a large portion of elections are manipulated to benefit a select few rather than truly reflecting the will of the people. He also pointed out that governance in many cases does not align with the needs and aspirations of citizens, as their welfare is often neglected.
“Looking at the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, we see yet another glaring example of how our democracy and governance are failing the people. The disagreement is not about improving key development areas like education, healthcare, or poverty alleviation. Instead, it is driven by interests that do not benefit the people of Rivers State or Nigeria as a whole,” he added.
Obi emphasized that the real victims of the crisis are the people, whose well-being and future are being affected. He appealed to all parties involved to reflect on their roles as leaders and consider the hardships faced by the citizens.
“My respectful appeal to all those involved is to reconsider their positions and reflect on the grace God has bestowed upon them as leaders. They must think about the suffering people of Rivers State and work towards a better future for their children,” he urged.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the well-being of Rivers people and praying for them. He also called on well-meaning Nigerians and the Federal Government to intervene and restore peace in the state in the spirit of democracy and good governance.
“A new Nigeria is POssible!” he concluded.
The statement was signed by Ibrahim Umar, POMR Spokesman, on March 18, 2025.
