Some residents of Rivers State have criticised suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for apparently giving up quite easily on democratic principles, saying he (Fubara) can’t decide for Rivers people on who will occupy the Break House.

Recall that Fubara had, on Sunday, declared that he is not desperate to be reinstated as governor, cautioning his supporters to tone down their confrontational approach, but follow his strategic steps towards enduring peace.

But the Coordinator of South-South Elders Forum, Anabs Saro-Igbe, said the political situation in Rivers State has gone beyond Fubara, saying: “It is now a Rivers State Matter.” Hence, Fubara cannot decide for the entire Rivers people who elected him. He maintained that the residents want justice, adding that justice and restoration of a democratic system would salvage their hearts.

A resident, Emmanuel Moses, described Fubara’s position as an insult to Nigerians in the struggle for the protection and preservation of the country’s sovereignty.

He said, “If Fubara thinks it’s about him, then he must be thinking too much of himself. Rivers people and, indeed, Nigerians rose in defence of constitutional democracy and not for Fubara. Hence, it’s an insult to our sensibilities for Fubara to reduce a struggle for the protection and preservation of our sovereignty as Rivers people into his mal-adventure, even though he’s at the centre of the scrambling for our collective patrimony as Rivers People.”

Another resident, Kola Bello, argued that it will be wise for Fubara to tender his resignation letter instead of compromising his standard, adding that he foresees intimidation of him.

Mrs Agnes Fubi expressed fear that the rapid development going on under the administration of Fubara will be jettisoned.Meantime, Fubara’s followers have maintained coldness as the statement appeared to have deflated some of them, while the supporters of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister’s camp have continued to rant, urging Fubara to resign without further delay.

ALSO, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has reacted strongly to recent remarks made by the suspended Rivers State governor, suggesting his lack of interest in returning to office.

While Fubara’s comments may reflect his frustrations, HURIWA warned that such developments should not be normalised in a constitutional democracy. In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, yesterday, HURIWA stressed that Nigeria’s democracy is anchored on the rule of law, the supremacy of the constitution, and the sanctity of electoral mandates.

The Association expressed deep concern that Fubara’s perceived “nonchalance,” reflected in his public remarks, could be misinterpreted as acceptance of an illegality and further embolden anti-democratic forces.