Rivers Crisis: Gov. Fubara Inaugurates Judicial Commission To Investigate Recent Violence

Following the recent violence and arson occasioned by the local government elections and swearing in of elected chairmen in Rivers state, Governor of the oil rich state, Siminalayi Fubara has inaugurated a seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the recent arson, killings, and destruction of property at various Local Government Council Headquarters in the state.

This announcement was made in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nelson Chukwudi, on Tuesday.

The commission, which is to be chaired by Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, is expected to complete their investigation within the next one month.

Other members of the commission includes, Inyingi Brown as secretary, Uzor Ikenga as counsel, othe members are, Felicia Nwoke, Blessing Didia, Samuel Egbe, and Venerable Alex Usifor.

Governor Fubara, who expressed deep concern over the violent incidents, described them as reminiscent of the unrest during the 2014 electoral period, which resulted in court burnings, bombings, and fatalities. He stated that the government of Rivers state will not turn a blind eyes to ill-guided youths and politically sponsored thugs turning the state into a theater of violence.

He emphasized the commission’s critical role in uncovering both the immediate and underlying causes of the violence, insisting that no matter the individuals involved, those responsible must be held accountable. Stating, “This assignment is essential", warning that failure to address these issues could embolden further destruction of public property.

Reflecting on the recent local government elections held on October 5, 2024, Fubara noted that prior to the polls, there were warnings of potential violence that were not taken seriously. “Unfortunately, the violence we anticipated did occur, both during and after the election,” he added.

The governor urged the commission to thoroughly evaluate the extent of damage inflicted on property and lives, assess whether the violence was politically motivated, and identify those behind the attacks. He also called for recommendations on compensation for victims and long-term strategies to prevent future incidents.

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