The News Central’’s highly anticipated Town Hall meeting in Rivers State, held yesterday, descending into chaos as opposing factions clashed amid the ongoing state of emergency in the region.

The Town Hall, which brought together leaders, stakeholders, and concerned citizens, was designed to provide a platform for dialogue on pressing issues such as suspended leadership, pipeline vandalism, and the broader crisis affecting the state. 

Dignitaries, elder statesmen, civil society representatives, and youth organisations were well represented at the forum.

Bright Amewhule, President of the Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI), spoke about how his party provided the platform for the rise of Governor Sim Fubara, who, according to him, later deserted the party.

However, tensions quickly escalated as various groups voiced strong, conflicting opinions on the way forward for Rivers State. 

The first confrontation arose when Kemwel Ibinabo, a participant, addressed the alleged influence of the former Governor of the State, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

The event erupted with heated exchanges and disruptions as participants from different political and civil society factions opposed one another, reflecting the deep divisions currently gripping the state. 

The atmosphere grew increasingly volatile, forcing organisers and security personnel to intervene to restore order.

Another flashpoint occurred when the Chairperson of the Rivers State Labour Party, Hilda Dokubo, alleged the existence of godfatherism in the state. She remarked, “You can’t have a governor and have another person who is in charge.”

The former APC Chairman of Rivers State, Igo Aguma, declared, “Crisis merchants are the biggest beneficiaries and they claim peace.” He further urged the audience to “let the crisis merchants take a backseat and allow the governor and his predecessor to resolve it amicably.” 

He argued that the problems in Rivers State were caused by certain elements that did not want the state to progress, and that the main parties concerned could reach a resolution.

Addressing the issue of resolution, Pan Niger Delta leader Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe stated, “The problem is simple—Sim and his boss had an issue; they can solve it in a closed room. Elder statesmen should call them together to resolve the matter. The state is currently being ruled by someone who is not from Rivers State. Our economy is suffering today. Let us choose peace. All of us will suffer if there is no peace.”

The Managing Director of News Central, Mr. Kayode Akintemi, also addressed the gathering, assuring the audience of News Central’s commitment to giving Rivers State a voice during these challenging times.

He affirmed that the network would continue to provide a platform for constructive engagement and solution-driven dialogue.