Elders from the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State have strongly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a reaction based on misinformation and the handiwork of desperate political actors.

In a communiqué issued after what they described as a \"critical and objective analysis\" of the ongoing political turmoil in the state, the ONELGA Elders Forum expressed unwavering support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, applauding his developmental strides in infrastructure, healthcare, security, and workers’ welfare before recent political disruptions.

The elders decried the removal of democratically elected officials and the appointment of a sole administrator to govern the state, labeling the move \"unconstitutional, illegal, and undemocratic.\" They warned that such actions could worsen the crisis and stall development efforts.

“We the people of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA voted massively for Governor Fubara and he was delivering on his mandate until these undemocratic interruptions,” the communiqué read.

The forum called on the presidency to convene without further delay the promised reconciliation panel to restore democratic governance and constitutional order in Rivers State.

Interestingly, the elders reaffirmed their support for President Tinubu, stating they voted for him in 2023 and are willing to do so again in 2027—provided he upholds good governance and the rule of law in Rivers State.

They likened the current approach to resolving the crisis to \"using a gun to kill a mosquito,\" calling instead for sincere and inclusive efforts by all stakeholders—including the Presidency, National Assembly, and political leaders in Rivers State—to end the political impasse.

The communiqué was signed by respected elders and leaders including Prof. Jason Ossai, Chief B.I. Ordu, Rev. J.C. Omaegbu, Dr. Lucky Nwaoburu (Esq.), High Chief Sir Dr. Akolokwu Shadrack (JP), and others.