The Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations, otherwise known as Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA), on Wednesday demanded the immediate probe of suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara following the weighty allegations levelled against him by Dr. George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service of the State.
Highlighting some of allegations during a press briefing in Abuja, the Director General of CCLCA, Dr Gabriel Nwambu called on the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to carry out an in-depth investigation of the allegations against the Governor.
Dr. Nwambu emphasized that these allegations, if substantiated, highlight a serious crisis in governance and pose significant threats to the stability and integrity of our democratic institutions.
According to him, Dr. Nwaeke had made several alarming claims that the CSOs believe warrant immediate investigation by the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
He noted the CSOs, numbering 30 are standing in solidarity with Dr. Nwaeke who has offered to share evidence of corruption and other constitutional infractions perpetrated by Governor Fubara and Mr. Edison.
“We collectively urge the relevant authorities to act swiftly and transparently. It is imperative that these allegations are addressed to restore public confidence in the institutions of governance in Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole”, he added.
The DG commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his decisive intervention in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, which he said has helped to stabilize the region during this tumultuous period.
Dr. Nwambu explained that the President’s action, confirmed by the National Assembly, was a critical step toward upholding democracy and ensuring the welfare of the people of Rivers State.
He recalled the former Head of Service allegations against Governor Fubara as follows,
“Directives for Arson: Dr. Nwaeke alleged that suspended Governor Sim Fubara instructed his Chief of Staff to burn down the Rivers State House of Assembly to derail his suspected impeachment. This act, if proven, represents a direct violation of Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, which mandates that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
“Corruption and Financial Improprieties: It was stated that a bag of money was handed over for the purpose of executing this alleged arson. He also alleged the disbursement of large sums of money for personal interest of the suspended Governor Fubara implicating high-level corruption under Section 15(5) of the same Constitution, which emphasizes the duty of the state to combat corruption in all its forms.
“Threats to Public Safety and Security: Dr. Nwaeke expressed concern regarding planned sabotage of state infrastructure, which aims to incite public disorder. This falls under the purview of Section 1 of the Terrorism Prevention Act (2011), reinforcing the need for immediate intervention to safeguard the lives and property of citizens.
“Collusion with Militant Groups: Allegations of meetings between the governor, his Chief of Staff, and militant leaders pose a serious threat to national security and violate the provisions under Section 43 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended concerning the right to property, as these actions endanger public and private assets, including critical infrastructure.
“Subversion of Labour Rights: Dr. Nwaeke also revealed attempts to compromise Labour leaders in the state to quell dissent. This breaches Section 40 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association, fundamental pillars of democracy.
“In light of these allegations, we strongly urge immediate action by the relevant agencies of Government”.