Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has committed to acting on the findings of a judicial commission of inquiry into recent violence, including killings, arson, and property destruction in local government areas of the state.
The commission, led by Justice Roseline Minakiri, submitted its comprehensive report to Fubara on December 3, 2024, outlining the investigation’s results and recommendations.
The violence occurred on October 7, 2024, following the state’s local government elections, with attacks on three local government headquarters, resulting in the burning of property. These attacks were linked to political tensions, with opposition groups and loyalists of former Governor Nyesom Wike opposing the election.
Governor Fubara, addressing the report’s submission, promised that his administration would not tolerate such violence in the future. He assured the public that the recommendations would be implemented to prevent future occurrences.
“We will not be part of any system that encourages destruction,” he emphasized, adding that the government would work swiftly to enforce the report’s measures, which will be presented to the executive council for further action.
Fubara also condemned the recent surge in destructive politics, stating that such violence serves no purpose in political competition. He called for an end to these acts, stating that they undermine the state’s progress. Reflecting on the past, he noted that similar destructive forces had previously wreaked havoc in Rivers State before 2014.
Justice Minakiri, in her remarks, described the report as comprehensive, containing four volumes with findings, memoranda, and exhibits. She urged the government to implement the recommendations to deter future violence and restore peace in the state.
Governor Fubara thanked the commission members for their determination despite facing physical and legal threats during their investigation. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the violence are held accountable and that Rivers State moves forward with stability and progress.
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