The South East South South Professionals of Nigeria (SESSPN) have expressed strong disapproval of what they describe as the Federal Government’s lawless conduct in the affairs of Rivers State, particularly through the actions of the Nigerian Police. In a press statement signed by SESSPN President Hannibal E. Uwaifo Esq and General Secretary Chief Ireke Kalu Onuma, the group denounced the continued interference aimed at destabilizing the democratic processes in Rivers State, allegedly orchestrated by former Governor Nyesom Wike with the backing of federal authorities.
The group warned that this reckless conduct by the Federal Government sets a dangerous precedent, drawing parallels to the events that led to the fall of Nigeria’s First Republic. In their statement, the professionals referenced the proverb, “Those who the Gods want to kill, they first make mad,” emphasizing that the current actions, driven by personal greed for power and money, could precipitate a total breakdown of law and order in the state.
The professionals were particularly critical of the misuse of court orders by politicians seeking to undermine governance in Rivers State. According to the group, the Rivers State Government is constitutionally responsible for organizing local government elections, and the Supreme Court has upheld this right. They questioned the legitimacy of the Nigerian Police’s interference, asserting that no legal framework permits them to disrupt the elections.
The SESSPN also accused the Nigerian Police of compromising professionalism and acting as enforcers of political oppression. They described the police’s use of arrests, detentions, and intimidation against political opponents as an affront to Nigeria’s democracy, which they claim is steadily eroding under the current government.
In a call to action, SESSPN urged the founding fathers of Rivers State and all well-meaning stakeholders to rise against the destabilizing forces at play. They demanded that the scheduled local government elections in Rivers State be held without any further interference from federal authorities or law enforcement agencies.
The statement concluded with a firm declaration of support for the Government and people of Rivers State, urging vigilance against the encroachment of federal powers that threaten the sanctity of democratic institutions.
For publication inquiries, please contact:
SESSPN Secretariat, CIBN Building (5th Floor),
19 Adeola Hopewell Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
