The Rivers Restoration Movement (RRM) has called on Senator John Mbata, the newly elected President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to step down within seven days, citing his Ikwerre heritage as a disqualifier for leading the pan-Igbo organization.
In a statement jointly signed by its Director General, Hon. Johnson George, and Secretary, Mrs. Sarima Akpata, on Sunday, the group argued that the Ikwerre ethnic group is not part of the Igbo community, making Mbata’s position untenable.
“The emergence of Senator Mbata as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is disturbing and disgraceful. Ikwerres are not Igbos, and this attempt to annex Rivers State under the guise of Igbo leadership will not stand,” the statement read.
The group expressed outrage at Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for congratulating Mbata, accusing him of enabling what they described as an “irritating battle for the soul of Rivers State.”
“Governor Fubara’s congratulatory message is a betrayal of Rivers people, especially when the Ikwerres have never identified as Igbos. It’s a humiliation to our people, and we will not accept it,” Hon. George stated.
The RRM claimed that Mbata’s election was part of a larger agenda to bring Rivers State under Igbo influence, a situation they likened to colonial subjugation.
“This is not just about politics; it’s about our identity and independence as Rivers people,” Mrs. Akpata added. “The Ikwerres are not and will never be Igbos, much like the Scots and Welsh are not English despite speaking the same language.”
The group announced plans to stage large-scale peaceful protests in Rivers State, Abuja, and United Nations facilities to highlight their grievances.
“We will ensure the world knows about this injustice. Our protests will show that Rivers people reject this political maneuvering,” Hon. George declared.
RRM also urged the Federal Government, security agencies, and national leaders to intervene, warning that the situation could reignite animosity between neighboring states.
“We appeal to President Tinubu, the Nigerian Police, and the DSS to investigate this matter and prevent further tensions. Rivers State will not be a pawn in any political game,” the group emphasized.
As the ultimatum looms, the controversy has sparked widespread debate over ethnic identity and leadership within the region. Neither Senator Mbata nor Governor Fubara has issued a formal response to RRM’s demands as of press time.
