The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has urged President Bola Tinubu to establish an independent Truth and Reconciliation Committee to resolve the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
Speaking in Abuja, NCSCN President, Blessing Akinlosotu, suggested that the committee should consist of respected elder statesmen, including former Presidents, Vice Presidents, Senate Presidents, and Speakers of the House of Representatives.
He emphasized that the committee must conduct an unbiased and thorough investigation into the root causes of the crisis to find a long-term and widely accepted resolution.
Akinlosotu expressed concerns over the recent political turmoil in Rivers, warning that without intervention, the situation could escalate into full-scale violence.
He referenced the Supreme Court’s ruling, which affirmed that no functioning government existed in Rivers following the demolition of the State House of Assembly.
“The demolition was a serious attack on democracy and pushed the crisis to an extreme level,” he stated.
Acknowledging the State of Emergency declared by President Tinubu, Akinlosotu noted that while it may seem drastic, it was necessary to prevent further chaos and protect lives and property.
However, he advised that the emergency rule should not extend beyond three months, emphasizing that its success should be measured by the restoration of peace and political stability under the sole administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibot-Ete Ibas.
“The milk has already been spilled, but we must now focus on ensuring Rivers State returns to stability as soon as possible,” he added.