By Mike Odeh James (Oche-Agbo)
The Chairman of the Delta State chapter of the Association of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (UYAN), Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, has lauded the Bayelsa State High Court for issuing an injunction to halt a proposed pro-Wike rally scheduled to hold next week in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
The rally, organized by supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, had stirred widespread controversy and backlash, particularly from the Ijaw ethnic group and other concerned stakeholders in the region. Fears of possible unrest and violent confrontation prompted calls for its cancellation.
Tensions had been on the rise in the lead-up to the rally, with many residents and groups warning that it could reignite unresolved political and ethnic grievances. Responding to growing public concern, the Bayelsa State Government sought judicial intervention to preempt potential chaos. The High Court subsequently issued an injunction suspending the event, citing the risk to public peace and safety.
In a statement issued to the press on Saturday, Comrade Fajoye praised the court’s decision, describing it as a judgment with a “human face.” He said the ruling prioritized the well-being of the people over political interests and helped avert an imminent crisis.
“I wholeheartedly welcome the court’s decision to put a stop to the rally,” Fajoye stated. “If the rally had proceeded, the lingering tensions between the Ijaw nation and the unresolved issues surrounding the FCT Minister could have easily erupted into violence and bloodshed. The judiciary has once again proven its vital role in safeguarding peace.”
Fajoye also commended Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri for his calm and thoughtful handling of the situation, describing the governor’s approach as mature and peace-oriented.
“I must commend Governor Diri for his wisdom and restraint,” he added. “His leadership in the face of provocation demonstrates a deep commitment to the peace and unity of the South-South region.”
The youth leader went further to advise the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to be mindful of his actions and not allow himself to be used to destabilize the Niger Delta. While acknowledging that political ambition is natural, Fajoye warned that such aspirations must never be pursued at the expense of regional harmony.
“I urge Barr. Wike to tread carefully and not be perceived as someone with ulterior motives,” he said. “The Niger Delta is a sensitive region, and any attempt to divide its people will only bring setbacks. We’ve endured enough strife in the past and cannot afford more disruptions fueled by political gamesmanship.”
Fajoye’s remarks echo a growing sentiment among South-South youth leaders and other community stakeholders, who have expressed unease over the region’s increasing political tension. Many believe that early-stage political rallies, if not properly managed, could trigger instability.
The Bayelsa court ruling has, therefore, been widely welcomed as a proactive step toward preserving peace. It also reinforces the importance of responsible political conduct in a region still grappling with the legacies of unrest and marginalization.
In conclusion, while the political climate in the South-South remains delicate, Fajoye’s commendation of the judiciary and his call for statesmanship from key political actors serve as timely reminders of the need to prioritize unity, stability, and the collective good above personal ambition.
Let me know if you’d like this translated into Idoma or adapted for a specific outlet.
Middle-Belt Times 