Dr. Austin Tam George, a former Commissioner for Information in Rivers State, says prolonged political impasse in the state has come at a great cost, but stressed that the people’s yearning is for unity, stability, and progress.
Speaking during an interview with ARISE News on Sunday,, he noted the setbacks caused by the crisis. “The truth is that we’ve lost quite a bit of ground during this crisis and the Rivers people cannot wait to move forward, and I think that, you know, this commitment to work together should crystallize on the ground.
“The people want to see action, they want to see change in their communities, and they want to see leadership that puts them first. Anything short of that will mean this whole process is just another exercise in futility.”
Tam George highlighted the importance of the peace agreement signed by stakeholders, admitting it would not be a smooth journey but described it as the only path out of the stalemate.
“It’s not going to be easy, but it is the only way forward and I think the president is right to get everyone to sign on to this.”
He drew attention to the expectations of ordinary citizens who have borne the brunt of the crisis.
“What the Rivers people deserve is stability, development, and a working government, not an endless cycle of political crisis. They deserve roads, schools, healthcare, and the peace of mind that comes with governance that works for them.
For too long, politics in Rivers has been reduced to power struggles, and this has denied the ordinary people the benefits of leadership and good governance.”
He applauded the role played by President Bola Tinubu in brokering peace. “The president has shown uncommon leadership and clarity in the way he has intervened in this crisis. Many leaders in his position would have stayed away or allowed things to fester, but he stepped in at the right time and with the right approach. That is why we are seeing this level of commitment from all stakeholders to at least sit down and sign an agreement to end the hostilities.”
He further cautioned that while agreements had been reached, vigilance and sincerity among stakeholders would determine the future of the state.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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