The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has issued a plea for peace, urging the conflicting factions in Rivers State to lay down their arms and embrace reconciliation.

Chief Iwuanyanwu made this appeal during an interaction with journalists in Owerri, emphasizing the need for an amicable resolution to the discord between the groups aligned with Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, members of the Rivers House of Assembly, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Highlighting the importance of peaceful resolution, Chief Iwuanyanwu stressed that it is crucial for the prosperity and development of the people of Rivers State, as well as the broader Eastern region and Nigeria as a whole.

Expressing discomfort with the ongoing strife, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo leader underscored the familial ties between the parties involved, noting that both former Governor Wike and his successor hail from the region, making reconciliation paramount for progress.

He urged the key figures, the FCT Minister and Governor Fubara, to initiate dialogue and find common ground swiftly, emphasizing the economic significance of Port Harcourt as the commercial hub of Eastern Nigeria.

Recalling past efforts towards regional unity, Chief Iwuanyanwu referenced the formation of the Council of Eastern Nigeria Business Leaders shortly after the civil war, where leaders from Rivers State played pivotal roles in advocating for regional development.

In his appeal for resolution, Chief Iwuanyanwu stressed that conflicts benefit no one, urging a commitment to good governance in Rivers State under the current administration.

He revealed Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s intention to facilitate a meeting between the principal actors, aiming for a solution that preserves dignity and promotes unity among all parties involved.