A group known as Simplicity Movement has urged the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), and security agencies to investigate recent pipeline explosions in the state. The group specifically highlighted the need to probe the explosion on the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Bodo community, Gokana Local Government Area, following reports of a section of the facility catching fire.
Moreover, the group dismissed claims that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had demolished and abandoned the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, labeling such allegations as misleading. Speaking at a news briefing in Port Harcourt, the state capital, the National Leader of Simplicity Movement, Sobomabo Jackrich, addressed recent events and emphasized that the sole administrator’s visit to the Assembly complex had confirmed ongoing reconstruction work.
Jackrich expressed concerns over the reported explosions at oil and gas installations in Rivers State, urging for a thorough investigation into the causes of these incidents. He highlighted the potential threats to lives, the environment, and the state’s economic stability. The group called for identifying and bringing to justice any perpetrators found to be responsible for sabotage.
Regarding the claims about the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, Jackrich refuted assertions that Governor Fubara had demolished the building without any rebuilding efforts. He clarified that construction work on a modern State Assembly Complex was underway before the emergency rule was declared. Jackrich emphasized the need to correct the misleading information and acknowledged the progress made on the project.
While expressing disapproval of the governor’s suspension and the state House of Assembly’s situation, the group stated its willingness to support the Sole Administrator with the condition that democratic governance is promptly restored. Jackrich condemned the unconstitutional suspension and called for the swift return of democracy and the rule of law in Rivers State. The group urged stakeholders and citizens to avoid escalating tensions and work together to uphold democratic principles in the state.