Rivers crisis: Group seeks visa ban on Fubara

The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has called on democratic nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and EU member states, to impose a visa ban on Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and several judges.

The coalition expressed alarm over the erosion of democratic principles and constitutional governance in Rivers State under Fubara’s leadership.

The convener of the group, Okwa Dan, in a statement on Friday, said Governor Fubara has made efforts to weaken the people’s will and erode the rule of law, including influencing elections and pressuring the judiciary to support his authoritarian goals.

Dan also accused the governor of activating a “brown envelope mission” to allegedly bribe judges in Rivers State.

The NDC condemned the actions of some judges, who have allegedly delivered verdicts that align with political interests rather than upholding the rule of law.

The group described these judges as “Brown Envelope Judges” who have eroded public confidence in the judiciary.

The NDC urged the international community to hold Governor Fubara and his associates accountable for their actions, which they believe undermine Nigeria’s democratic future and destabilise the entire country.

“We call on the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and EU member states to impose a visa ban on Governor Fubara, Oko-Jumbo, and other associates,” the NDC said.

“We also call on the international community to hold these individuals responsible for their actions and to support democratic governance in Nigeria.”

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The NDC commended the lawful halt of federal revenue to Rivers State as an essential step in holding Governor Fubara accountable.

The group called for international solidarity and urged civil society organisations, the media, and all well-meaning Nigerians to join them in the fight for democracy.

He said, “This is a call to save democracy from the hands of devourers and unpatriotic individuals. This is a fight for a just cause; where the law must never be undermined, intimidated, abused, or subdued by any political individual or faction for any reason.

“Additionally, we urge the judiciary to uphold its sacred duty as the custodian of justice. Judges must resist political interference and prioritize the rule of law above all else. The survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on a judiciary that is impartial, independent, and committed to justice.”