ENOUGH IS ENOUGH; A STAND AGAINST INTIMIDATION OF OUR IJAW LEADERS

Today, I speak clearly and without ambiguity. Any further attempt by Nyesom Wike or his political associates to intimidate, harass, or silence any Rivers person, particularly Ijaw leaders and youths, will no longer be accepted and will be firmly resisted through lawful and collective means. Political power must never be used as a tool to suppress voices or threaten people simply because of differing positions or ethnic leadership.

We have taken note of the purported lies, frame-up, and calculated character assassination being circulated against one of our finest leaders, Chief Tammy Danagogo. These developments are not being taken lightly. We are watching events closely, attentively, and with utmost vigilance as they unfold.

Hon. Farah Dagogo stands as a reminder of what political intimidation and abuse looked like in 2022 in Rivers State, when Former Governor Wike declared him wanted and imprisoned him for months. He paid a heavy price for standing firm, and at that time, we deliberately chose restraint. Our decision as Ijaws was made in the interest of peace and stability, not because we were weak or afraid. Our silence then was a sign of maturity, not surrender.

Let it be clearly understood that freedom of speech is a constitutional right. The same mind that gives Wike and his supporters to insult elders, leaders, and even openly insult the sitting Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara, without arrests or intimidation, must not suddenly be converted into a weapon against Ijaw leaders because of political power or proximity to authority. This selective and biased approach to law enforcement is unacceptable, dangerous, and capable of undermining public confidence in institutions meant to protect all citizens equally.

We therefore call on the Commissioner of Police and all relevant security agencies to conduct their investigations thoroughly, professionally, and without political bias. Chief Tammy Danagogo is a man of proven integrity, refinement, and service who has served Rivers State in various capacities. He has never been indicted, found wanting, or associated with criminality in any form.

I state this without reservation: Chief Tammy Danagogo has never been a killer and can never be one. I beat my chest to affirm that he has done nothing wrong. This attempt to drag his name through the mud is unacceptable to Ijaw people and Rivers youths. A man of questionable character cannot falsely accuse a leader whose integrity stands tall and tested. Chief Tammy Danagogo is one of the leaders we trust, rely on, and look up to, and nothing must happen to him or his family. He has paid his dues in the service of democracy and Rivers State, and leaders like him are assets, not targets.

Hon. Comr. (Dr) Tamuno Kpokpo

Chairman Emeritus, IYC Eastern Zone