By Kayode Ajiboye
Copyright independent
The Rivers Grassroot Movement (RGM) held an extraordinary stakeholders’ meeting on Monday, where its founder, High Chief Hon. (Amb) Sobomabo Jackrich, delivered a powerful speech calling for unity, peace, and good governance in Rivers State.
The event, attended by distinguished guests including High Chief Dr. Dumo Lulu-Briggs, focused on the urgent need for Rivers people to transcend political and tribal divisions to foster collective progress.
In his address, Jackrich underscored the RGM’s core mission: “to bridge the gaps created by partisan politics—the very gaps that have kept us divided.” He emphasized that a unified voice is the only way to achieve consensus, ensure effective leadership, and secure people-oriented governance for the state.
A key point of the speech was a direct appeal to the Federal Government. Jackrich called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate the Governor and the State House of Assembly at the expiration of the current state of emergency, a move he described as “critical if our state is to remain aligned with the democratic progress of our nation.”
Jackrich commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his “restraint and commitment to peace” and acknowledged the “large-heartedness” of the FCT Minister, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his willingness to build peace.
He noted that their actions demonstrate that “peace is possible when leaders put Rivers State first,” but cautioned against allowing such political crises to ever reoccur.
The RGM leader affirmed the movement’s unwavering commitment to advocacy, justice, and equity.
“The Rivers Grassroot Movement will continue to speak for justice and equity for all Rivers people,” he stated, promising to demand accountability from public and corporate offices, propose new ideas, and engage with institutions on policy formulation.
The speech also served as a public endorsement of Governor Fubara’s leadership.
Jackrich expressed the movement’s “solidarity” with the governor, praising his projects that are “reshaping both the economic and infrastructural landscapes of our state.”
He expressed confidence that upon his return, the governor would accelerate project delivery and initiate more impactful programs across all 23 Local Government Areas.
Jackrich stressed that governance is a “collective effort” and urged both the Governor and the House of Assembly to “work in harmony.”
He implored them to prioritize the collective interest of Rivers people above all else to “restore public trust, accelerate development, and strengthen the democratic foundations of our state.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Jackrich advised Rivers people to be deliberate in their choices.
He urged them to look “beyond party loyalties, tribal considerations, and sentiments” and to elect leaders with “competence, credibility, and character.” He warned that allowing “nepotism, favoritism, or blind partisanship” to guide decisions would only worsen the state’s situation.
The meeting culminated in the presentation of the Award of Trusteeship to High Chief Barr. Dumo Lulu-Briggs.
Jackrich lauded Lulu-Briggs as a man whose life “embodies leadership, integrity, and service.”
He recognized his contributions as a former gubernatorial candidate, a respected traditional ruler, and a serial entrepreneur, noting his consistent support for the growth of Rivers State and his close interaction with young people.
