The Rivers State Elders Council has urged political stakeholders to embrace peace and unity as democratic governance returns to the state.

The chairman, Ferdinand Alabraba, made the call in a statement on Wednesday following the lifting of emergency rule in the state by President Bola Tinubu.

Anabraba urged all stakeholders to avoid actions that could reignite political tension, saying, “Let us deepen the reconciliation that has been achieved. The elders council urges individuals and groups still fanning the embers of discord to desist forthwith. The crisis is over. Rivers’ interest must come first.”

He commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the leadership of the state legislature for reaffirming their commitment to work together in the interest of the Rivers people.

The elders’ council chairman commended Rivers people for their patience during the six months of emergency rule, describing it as a demonstration of trust in the president’s intervention.

Mr Alabraba further stated that the President’s proactive decision averted ‘a disaster that was about to descend on the state’

“We specially commend former governor of the state and current Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for his role in midwifing this reconciliation. Wike demonstrated a large heart by bringing the parties together; he ensured that they gave the president a first-hand briefing about their understanding,” he said.

He used the medium to thank the president for standing firm in resolving the crisis that had almost torn the state apart.

“Tinubu’s decisive action restored peace in the state and strengthened the people’s confidence in his Renewed Hope Agenda.

“As elders, we shall continue to promote peace and stability. We urge political leaders in the state to work together in order to promote unity and development in the state,” he stated.

(NAN)