Bayelsa Court Halts Pro-Wike Rally: South-South Youth Leader Applauds Ruling

By Mike Odeh James

The Delta State Chairman of the Association of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN), Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, has hailed the Bayelsa State High Court for halting the planned pro-Wike rally, which was set to take place next week in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital. This rally, organized by groups supporting the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Barr Nyesom Wike, had sparked significant controversy and opposition from several quarters, particularly the Ijaw ethnic nationality and other concerned groups in the region.

The planned rally in itself, has already heightened the tension within  the region. Hence! The Ijaw people, alongside other ethnic nationalities in the region, had strongly opposed the demonstration, fearing that it could escalate into violent clashes that might destabilize the existing peace, being enjoyed in the State. The Bayelsa State Government, deeply concerned about the threat of civil unrest, swiftly sought judicial intervention, as against all other means, to prevent any potential chaos. In response to the situation, leading to the Bayelsa State High Court issuing an injunction suspending the rally, thus averting the looming danger,  violence and possible bloodshed.

In a statement issued to the press on Saturday, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye expressed his support for the court’s decision. As he believes that the judgement had a human face, as it serves the interests of the people, and not that of powerful individuals, acknowledging that the ruling was a step in the right direction, as it helped prevent a possible outbreak of violence. He emphasized that the judiciary had played a crucial role in safeguarding peace in the region by making a timely intervention.

“I wholeheartedly welcome the court’s decision to put a stop to the rally,” Comrade Fajoye said. “Because If the rally had been allowed to proceed, the feud between the Ijaw nation and the comments of the FCT Minister, which is yet to be resolved, could have possibly led to violence and bloodshed. So I commend the judiciary for averting an unnecessary tragedy. The people of the South-South region, the Ijaw nation especially Bayesians, are grateful for this timely intervention.”

The youth leader further commended the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, for his calm and measured approach in handling the delicate situation. He noted that the governor’s leadership style had been exemplary in the face of potential provocation.

“I also wish to commend Governor Douye Diri for his wisdom and tact in managing the situation,” Comrade Fajoye added. “The governor handled the issue with utmost care, preventing a full-blown crisis. His actions show that he is committed to preserving the peace and unity of the South-South region.”

Comrade Fajoye also advised the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, against being used as a pawn to destabilize the Niger Delta Region . Stressing that while political ambition is natural, it should never come at the expense of the peace and unity of the region.

“I urge Barr Nyesom Wike to please thread with caution and not allow himself to be seen  by observers and well meaning citizens, as one with an ulterior motive”.   The youth leader further emphasized on the delicate nature of the region, stressing that any attempt to sow division among the people will only lead to unnecessary conflicts and setbacks. Our region has faced enough challenges in the past, and we cannot afford to allow external forces to manipulate us for selfish political gains.”

Fajoye’s statements reflect growing concerns among many youth leaders and members of the South-South community about the rising tensions in the region. There is a strong desire to maintain peace and unity, especially considering the history of political unrest and ethnic divisions that have plagued the region in the past. The Bayelsa court’s ruling has, therefore, been seen as a welcome development, not only by the state government but by various stakeholders who fear that political rallies coming too early, if left unchecked, could lead to violence and further destabilize the region.

In conclusion, while the political dynamics in the South-South are complex, Fajoye’s commendation of the court decision highlights the importance of ensuring that political activities do not jeopardize the peace and stability of the region. The youth leader’s call for political figures to act with a sense of responsibility and foresight, that will resonate with many who believe that the unity of the South-South is paramount and must be safeguarded at all costs.