The Rivers State chapter of the South-South Physically Challenged Indigenes has voiced conditional support for the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, calling for its duration to not exceed the constitutionally stipulated six months.
Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Friday, the group’s chairman, Altraide Itekena, stressed the need for peace and inclusion amid the state’s ongoing political turmoil.
“We acknowledge President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of the Legislature and Executive in Rivers State, provided it does not exceed the stipulated six-month period,” Itekena stated.
He announced that the organization would form a five-member reconciliation committee comprising persons with disabilities (PWDs), tasked with facilitating dialogue between the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his predecessor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and other key stakeholders in the crisis.
“This committee will also engage with the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the leadership of the National Assembly, and President Tinubu to advocate against any extension of the emergency rule in our dear state,” he said.
Itekena lamented the impact of the political crisis on governance and the well-being of persons living with disabilities, noting they have been “left without recognition from key stakeholders”.
He pledged the group’s support for the Sole Administrator’s peace-building mandate but urged neutrality.
“We have unanimously resolved to work and support the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) in achieving the presidential mandate as well as fostering peace, harmonious and constitutional relations between the warring arms of government in Rivers State,” Itekena said.
He continued, “We urge Sole Administrator Ibas to ensure that he remains unbiased in his responsibility and that PWD are included in his administration and are recognized as special beneficiaries.”
In conclusion, Itekena emphasized the strength and resilience of the PWD community and demanded greater inclusion in state affairs.
“Our strength lies in our resilience, which is fuelled by our experiences. Our community knows no boundaries, and we feel it is time to expose our strengths and psychological disposition to those who care,” he stated.
“Let us all strive to live harmoniously with our commonwealth. We have resolved to no longer be sidelined.”
