The Elders Forum of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA Elders) has broken its silence, strongly condemning recent developments and calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act with wisdom, fairness, and commitment to democratic principles.
ONELGA Elders
In a communique released on Thursday, April 18, 2025, and jointly signed by respected traditional, political, religious, and community leaders from the LGA, the forum expressed deep worry over what they described as the illegal suspension of elected officials and the imposition of a sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs. According to the elders, these actions are not only unconstitutional but also dangerous for democracy, peace, and development in Rivers State.
One of the strongest points in the communique was the rejection of any move by the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. The ONELGA elders stated clearly that such a decision, allegedly considered by President Tinubu, was based on “misinformation contrived by desperate power mongers.” “The declaration of a state of emergency in our dear state was not only unnecessary but also the result of manipulated reports by those who do not mean well for Rivers people,” the statement read.
The elders, under the leadership of prominent figures such as Prof. Jason Ossai, Chief B.I Ordu, and Rev. J.C Omaegbu, insisted that peace was still attainable in the state through dialogue, not force. Another key message in the communique was the continued support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara. According to the forum, the people of ONELGA voted overwhelmingly for him in the 2023 governorship election, and they still stand firmly behind him. The elders praised Governor Fubara’s achievements before the political crisis escalated. “He was doing credibly well in providing infrastructure, improving health services, ensuring the security of lives and property, paying workers and pensioners, and pushing development projects across the state,” they noted.
This public endorsement of the governor is significant, especially at a time when some political forces are questioning his leadership and pushing for alternatives. The ONELGA Elders Forum strongly criticized the suspension of elected officials and their replacement with a sole administrator, describing it as an “assault on democracy.” “The move to demolish democratic institutions in Rivers State is unjustifiable, illegal, and a step backward,” they said. “It will only deepen the crisis and hinder development.” They called on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society groups, and democratic institutions to speak out against what they believe is a dangerous path for Rivers State and Nigeria’s democracy.
The ONELGA Elders communique also urged President Tinubu to immediately activate the reconciliation panel he had earlier promised to resolve the crisis. According to the elders, setting up the panel now would restore confidence and pave the way for genuine dialogue. “We need healing and unity, not intimidation and force,” the elders said, comparing the federal response so far to “using a gun to kill a mosquito.” They urged the President, the National Assembly, and all key political stakeholders to join hands and prioritize peaceful resolution over political dominance.
Interestingly, the ONELGA Elders also reminded President Tinubu of the political support he received from ONELGA in the 2023 presidential election. They added that their continued support for his leadership in 2027 will depend on how he treats the current situation in Rivers State. “We voted for Tinubu in 2023 and are willing to do so again in 2027, but only if he meets our expectations for good governance and shows respect for the rule of law,” the ONELGA elders emphasized.
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