‘General’ Boyloaf, also known as Chief Ebikabowei Victor-Ben, the former militant commander, has advised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to avoid flattery and concentrate on sincere reconciliation with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. Boyloaf underlined that the long-term development of the oil-rich region depends critically on promoting peace and reconciliation. He counseled Governor Fubara to interact with peace-promoting figures in order to foster true reconciliation.
In a statement reported by The Nation, Boyloaf highlighted potential consequences for Governor Fubara if the current crisis persists. He cautioned against individuals fueling the crisis for personal gain, warning that those causing discord would distance themselves if something adverse happened to Governor Fubara’s mandate. Boyloaf stressed the need for a quick and sincere reconciliation to bring about peace and address existing differences.
Boyloaf, a prominent figure in the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) and a key contributor to the formation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), expressed concern about the prolonged handling of the Rivers crisis. He identified personal gains as the driving force behind those prolonging the conflict and called for swift and genuine reconciliation for the well-being of the state.
He commended Governor Wike for his advocacy for true federalism, justice, equity, and peace during the campaign for the Southern Presidency. Boyloaf encouraged Governor Fubara to draw inspiration from the amicable relationship between former Governors Seriake Dickson and Douye Diri in Bayelsa State. He underscored the importance of patience, understanding, and loyalty, emphasizing gratitude and loyalty as crucial factors in fostering a peaceful environment.
Boyloaf issued a caution against supporters threatening to create chaos in Rivers if Governor Fubara is ousted, warning that such threats might be empty. He drew a parallel with the removal of the late former Governor Diepreye Solomon Peter Alamieyeseigha, highlighting that the transition did not result in chaos but rather saw people rallying behind former Governor Goodluck Jonathan, who later became president.
Lastly, Boyloaf denounced efforts to transform the Rivers crisis into an ethnic conflict, labeling such endeavors as disgraceful and regrettable. He praised Nyesom Wike for demonstrating a strong commitment to the well-being and progress of the Ijaw people through initiatives prioritizing their empowerment and development.
Beloaf said, “Gov. Fubura must not be deceived. If the fight continues and he (Fubara) is removed, there would not be any more network to his phone, because those agitating and making empty threats will abandon him and go to the next person. The removal of the late former Governor Diepreye Solomon Peter Alamieyeseigha (DSP) from office didn’t cause any chaos; instead, people rallied behind former Governor Goodluck Jonathan, who later became president.”
