By Enekorogha Godbless
The National Union of Izon-Ibe Students (NUIS) Worldwide has Expressed strong solidarity with the Ijaw Youth council and Ijaw Nation Congress (INC) over the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
The President of apex Ijaw Students body, Sen. Comr. Josiah Temeoewiemiienbi Precious, has issued a stark warning against any attempt to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the first Ijaw governor of Rivers State. In a telephone conversation with the management of Nigeria Daily Chronicles today 9th of March, 2025, Josiah made it clear that the over 10.9 million Students of the Izon-Ibe Nation will not tolerate any form of disruption or interference by any group or individual seeking to impeach his Excellency, the governor of Rivers, Siminalayi Fubara. He emphasized that the creation of Rivers State was a direct result of the tireless struggle led by the late Major Isaac Adaka Boro, a prominent figure and a key advocate of the National Union of Izon-Ibe Students.
Josiah strongly stated, “There will be no more Rivers State if Governor Fubara is impeached. The creation of Rivers State is rooted in the selfless struggle of Major Isaac Adaka Boro, whose advocacy for the rights of the minority ethnic group and specifically the Ijaw people laid the foundation for the state's formation. As the President of NUIS, I stand today to affirm that we will not allow anyone to undo the progress that Boro and the Ijaw nation fought for. Rivers State owes its very existence to these efforts, and we will not stand by as these efforts are undermined.”
Fubara and WikeHe continued, “We stand firmly in support of Governor Fubara’s administration and mandate. Any attempts to intimidate, destabilize, or impeach him will be met with strong resistance. We will not allow anyone to jeopardize the success and progress of Rivers State under his leadership.”
During the conversation, Josiah also called on the Supreme Court to reconsider its ruling, specifically the decision to halt financial allocations to Rivers State. He expressed deep concern that such a move undermines the principles of federalism, which ensure that no level of government should rely on another for financial support. The President warned that this decision weakens the entire Nigerian federation and severely impacts Rivers State.
“Nigeria operates under the principles of federalism, and no level of government should depend on another for financial resources. However, this recent decision to halt the allocation of funds to Rivers State is a severe blow not only to the government but also to the citizens who rely on these funds for basic services,” Josiah explained. “How can the Supreme Court, which is supposed to be the final authority, justify stopping the allocation of funds to Rivers State? This action harms the state's development, leaves workers vulnerable to unpaid wages, and impacts farmers and fishermen who depend on government services for their livelihoods. This is an injustice that cannot stand.”
The President made it clear that while the Union awaits the review of the Supreme Court’s judgment, it will not passively watch as the struggles of the Ijaw people are undermined. He reminded the public of the sacrifices made by Isaac Adaka Boro, who fought for the creation of Rivers State but did not live to benefit from his labor.
“Major Isaac Adaka Boro was the driving force behind the creation of Rivers State. Yet, he did not live to see the rewards of his struggle. Governor Fubara is Boro’s brother, and anyone seeking to attack or undermine Fubara’s leadership is attacking the legacy of Boro himself,” Josiah declared. “We will not sit idly by while Boro’s memory is dishonored. There are many Boro figures in the contemporary Ijaw nation, especially within the ranks of NUIS.”
The NUIS President issued a stern warning to those behind the impeachment plot, saying, “If anyone believes that Boro’s fight is over simply because he is no longer alive, they are gravely mistaken. Boro’s spirit lives on in every Ijaw person, and anyone who dares attack Governor Fubara should be prepared to face the consequences. The battle for justice is far from over.”
In conclusion, Josiah Temeoewiemiienbi Precious called for unity within the Ijaw nation. He urged all Ijaw people, especially the youth and students, to remain resolute in defending their rights, their heritage, and the legacy of their ancestors. He reaffirmed the National Union of Izon-Ibe Students' unwavering commitment to championing the cause of the Ijaw people in political, social, and cultural matters.
“We will continue to fight for justice, equality, and the preservation of the legacy of Major Isaac Adaka Boro,” he concluded. “NUIS will not back down. We stand in solidarity with Governor Fubara, and we will not allow anyone to reverse the progress we have made.”
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