The President-General of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof Benjamin Okaba, has expressed the Ijaw Nation’s determination to protect Governor Siminalayi Fubara against any attempts by the State House of Assembly to remove him from office. Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, Prof Okaba criticized the lack of respect shown to the governor’s office by assembly members and local council chairmen.
Prof Okaba emphasized that the governor has the authority to appoint officials or members of his cabinet on an acting capacity without the approval of the legislature. He clarified that temporary appointments do not require clearance or approval, unlike substantive appointments.
As the umbrella organization representing the interests of the Ijaw people worldwide, Prof Okaba stated that the Ijaw National Congress is closely monitoring the situation in Rivers State. He called for peace and warned against any actions that could escalate tensions, noting that the Ijaw Nation would respond appropriately should anything go contrary.
In summary, the Ijaw National Congress has pledged its support to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and vowed to resist any attempts to remove him from office. They emphasized the need for respect for the governor’s office and called for peaceful resolution of the political wrangling in Rivers State.