Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has raised an alarm over the recent political crisis in Rivers State.

He warned that if the battle is not addressed, it could pose a serious security risk for the country. His concerns stem from the ongoing feud between the immediate past governor of Rivers, Nyesom Wike, and his successor, Governor Sim Fubara.

Chief George called for peace to reign and for Fubara to be allowed to govern and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Rivers State without interference.

Reacting to the recently conducted local government elections in the state, George said, “Any threat to peace in Rivers State could have severe security consequences, not just for Nigeria, but for the entire West African region.”

He also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the Rivers crisis and advise the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to refrain from actions that might destabilize the state.

Bode George pointed out that Rivers is too economically and politically important to Nigeria’s survival to be plunged into conflict.

He compared the Rivers situation to that which led to the 1966 coup, resulting in a civil war, warning that such a crisis, if not curtailed could destabilize the country.

“The political ambitions of individuals should not come at the expense of peace and development.

“By 2027, the people of Rivers State will decide through their votes whether they want Fubara to continue or not,” he said.