The Rivers State Elders and Leaders Forum (RIVELF) has urged politicians in the state to embrace reconciliation, forgiveness and unity as emergency rule ends and democratic governance is restored.

Acting Chairman of RIVELF and former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Dr Gabriel Toby, made the call at a news conference in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

He welcomed the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the state’s House of Assembly, following the lifting of emergency rule by President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Toby said, “The reinstatement offers Rivers people unique opportunity to reset and rebuild,” describing it as a moment for peace, sober reflection and rededication to service.

He added, “We call on the governor, members of the House of Assembly, political actors and stakeholders to put aside bitterness, rebuild confidence in each other and embrace reconciliation. Let our communities and factions replace anger with understanding, suspicion with trust and resentment with renewed brotherhood.”

The acting chairman urged leaders to recommit themselves to accountability, transparency and integrity, stressing that governance must prioritise the welfare and interests of Rivers State people.

He said, “Division weakens us; unity strengthens us. Whether in government or opposition, rural or urban, we must remember that Rivers belongs to us all. We must understand that the future of the state depends on our collective resolve to overcome the challenges confronting us.”

He noted that the return of functional executive and legislature must not simply mark a political settlement but serve as fresh start rooted in good governance.

He listed unemployment, insecurity, infrastructure decay and environmental degradation as urgent challenges requiring collective action and appealed to citizens to remain calm, reject violence and resist attempts to sow division.

He said, “Support lawful governance, pray for wisdom for our leaders and actively participate in rebuilding our state. Let this season be remembered as the time Rivers people chose reflection over reaction, forgiveness over conflict, dedication over neglect, and unity over division.’’

The former deputy governor commended Mr Tinubu for lifting the emergency rule and restoring constitutional governance, describing the move as a step toward lasting peace and stability in the oil-rich state.

He expressed hope that the transition would usher in progress and prosperity for Rivers State people and generations to come.

Mr Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, citing political instability and governance issues.

The declaration was subsequently approved by the Senate, which exercised its constitutional power under the amended 1999 Constitution to endorse the president’s proclamation.

The emergency rule involves the suspension of the state governor and the appointment of an administrator to oversee governance amid political turmoil.

(NAN)