A group of former members of the National Assembly from Rivers State have backed Governor Siminalayi Fubara in the ongoing political battle with FCT minister Nyesom Wike.

The ex-lawmakers in a communique urged political leaders in the state to prioritize peace and uphold the rule of law.

The group, which included Senator John Azuta Mbata, Senator Ngoji Denton West, and others, said their intervention became necessary because silence was no longer golden, given the threat to the state’s peace and development.

The ex-lawmakers, who served in both the Senate and House of Representatives, commended Governor Sim Fubara’s efforts to promote peace and development in the state.

Speaking at a media briefing in Port Harcourt, former House of Representatives member Bernard Mikko read the group’s communique, rejecting calls for a state of emergency and attempts to disrespect the constitutional terms of elected council chairmen.

He said, “Regardless of our political affiliations, we stand united in our unwavering belief and conviction that the unity, peace, and progress of Rivers State are paramount and non-negotiable.

“We reaffirm our absolute commitment to the rule of law, a cornerstone of democracy that ensures no one, including the government, is above the law. We uphold this fundamental principle, which safeguards justice, equality, and accountability for all.

“We emphasise that the tenure of local government councils must be respected in accordance with the constitution, ” he said.

Mikko added: “We believe that the calls for a state of emergency are unwarranted and have every confidence in the government’s ability to address any challenges that may arise. We trust in their capacity to maintain peace and stability in Rivers State.”

The lawmakers said silence is no longer golden.

They said, “This is one of those times in the life of our beloved state when silence is no longer golden. We cannot, in good conscience, continue to play the ostrich when our hard-earned democracy, including the peace and stability of a state that has been built on the blood of heroes, are threatened. We are deeply troubled by the anxiety, hysteria in our state.

“We recognise that the peace and stability of Rivers State, a vital economic hub of our nation, are under siege,” Mikko said.