By Milcah Tanimu

Musa Saidu, Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum in Rivers State and Southern Nigeria, has voiced strong dissatisfaction with the current administration under Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Saidu criticized the governor for alleged favoritism towards the Igbo community and the exclusion of Northerners in recent government appointments.

In an interview with The Guardian, Saidu expressed frustration over the lack of representation for Northerners in the state’s recent list of commissioners, highlighting that only an Igbo individual from Abia State was included among the non-Rivers indigenes.

Saidu accused Fubara’s government of being “entirely partial” and continuing the marginalization that he claims started during the tenure of former Governor Nyesom Wike. He argued that the Northern community has been neglected in terms of contracts and appointments.

“The biggest issue we face is the lack of contracts and opportunities. We have not received any benefits since Governor Fubara assumed office,” Saidu said. “The policies of Wike seem to persist, leaving the North without representation in the Rivers State Government House.”

Saidu appealed to Governor Fubara to address what he described as ongoing marginalization and to ensure inclusivity in his administration. He also reported the matter to Chief Edwin Clarke, urging action to resolve the situation.

“We call on the governor to stop creating divisions within the Northern community,” Saidu urged. “We are not opposed to appointments but they should be made in consultation with legitimate Northern leadership.”

He further criticized the governor for fostering what he called “deep animosity” among Northerners and emphasized that their support for the governor is contingent on equitable treatment. “If Rivers State progresses, we will progress too,” Saidu concluded.