A major support group for Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Simplicity Movement, has dissolved and rebranded itself as the Rivers Grassroots Movement (RGM).
The Simplicity Movement, which was launched a year ago and had members in 23 local government areas, has officially disbanded and rebranded as the Rivers Grassroots Movement.
The group disclosed this during a major stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday in Port Harcourt.
They said this was in full compliance with the directive of the governor for all political structures operating in his name to disband and realign with the evolving peace process.
Speaking at the meeting, National leader of the group, Sobomabo Jackrich, said the group, which has been a strong supporter of Fubara, was in support of the peace move.
He said, “Our action was not motivated by inducement, expectation, or political reward.
“It was a voluntary, sincere, and deliberate demonstration of solidarity and belief in a leader who, from day one, placed Rivers people at the centre of governance, ” he added.
He also noted that while the movement was ending, the values and vision continued under a new name and mandate.
“At this juncture, we must step aside not in weakness, but in strength; not in retreat, but in responsibility,” Jackrich stated.
According to him, the Rivers Grassroots Movement will operate as a non-partisan civic platform focused on civic engagement, peace-building, grassroots empowerment, and policy advocacy.
The group commended FCT Minister and former Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, for embracing reconciliation and reaffirmed its loyalty to Governor Fubara.
“We are not in opposition. We are not a faction. We are Rivers people. We are patriots. We are builders of peace,” Jackrich added.
He noted that they, however, remain under the guidance of Sim Fubara.
Other leaders of the group who spoke re-echoed a call on all supporters across the 23 LGAs to remain peaceful, disciplined, and united in the pursuit of a stable and progressive Rivers State.
The ongoing peace efforts have been commended by many quarters, including the Rivers Elders Forum, which had also urged the President to reinstate Governor Fubara with the return of peace.
