Rivers Equity Group, a socio-political organisation in Rivers State, has described as criminal and brutish the recent arson, killing and destruction of property at some local government council secretariats in Rivers State.
The group which stated this at a media briefing in Port Harcourt also described as a welcome development the setting up of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry by Governor Siminialayi Fubara to investigate those responsible for the dastardly act at the council secretariats.
It said the act was an invitation to anarchy and chaos, stressing that such actions are completely unexpected from individuals and leaders who are educated and have benefited from the State.
According to the group, the violence, lawlessness and public disorder are primitive scenarios that should never be associated with a State like Rivers which is highly blessed with quality men, women and abundant natural resources that contribute largely to the economy of Nigeria.
The group further questioned the sincerity of the Nigerian police In the saga, adding that it is brazenly unprofessional for a police force which sealed up the council secretariats for three months to suddenly withdraw from the secretariats without providing adequate security to forestall the break down of law and order.
The group also expressed satisfaction with the setting up of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the burning and killing at some council secretariats in the State.
“This step will also assuage the feelings and sensibilities of citizens and residents as well as other Nigerians.
“Rivers Equity Group had believed that with with the conclusion of the local government elections for chairmanship and councillors despite the judicial and security hiccups that confronted the state government, the forces of political intimidation, effrontery and thuggery would dissipate their misgivings in the judicial window open to them in the electoral process, while the noble pursuit of good governance continues.
“As a notable group that believes in equity and justice we consider the setting up of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry as a responsible and civilized way of resolving great State issues for the purpose of strengthening the administrative process of the State and to avert a repeat of such actions”.
The group also expressed worry over the questionable and seemly biased nature of some judicial pronouncements by particular judges of the Federal High Court and panel of the Court of Appeal concerning the affairs of Rivers State.
The text of the briefing was read by Barrister Nnamdi Gabriel who also signed the text alongside Sir Emeka Ichoku and Barrister Anthonia Alaputa for Rivers West.
Senibo Celestine Ogolo and Dr. Emmanuel Gogonte signed for Rivers South East while Dr. Lucky Amadi, Hon. Sarah Alalibo and Pastor Iyke Echie signed for Rivers East.
Hon. Dagogo Josiah signed for diaspora delegates while HRH Sunny Williams and Rotarian Adaure Odu signed for non-indigenous members of the group.
The leader of the group, Elder Clapton Ogolo, the Coordinator, Sir J. P. Nalley, Dr. E. Kaldick Jamabo and Woman Leader, Ammonia Nwuke, also signed the statement.
Earlier in his speech, Elder Clapton Ogolo had appealed to the Chief Judge of the Federation to investigate the activities of some Judges.
Also, Sir J.P. Nalley said if the society allowed evil to thrive, it would become a norm, adding that “time has come for the society to rise up against what is happening in the State”.
Similarly, Hon. Dagogo Josiah from the diaspora delegates condemned those instigating crisis in the state.

By: John Bibor