President Bola Tinubu has urged stakeholders in Rivers State to comply with the recent Supreme Court ruling, stressing the importance of adherence to the rule of law.

The apex court had nullified last year’s local government elections in the state and ruled that Martin Amaewhule and his group should be recognised as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Speaking to Niger Delta leaders under the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Tinubu called for swift implementation of the court’s decision.

“This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I would not be here as President without it. I have total confidence in our judiciary. Human beings can make errors, but once the court has spoken, that is final,” presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga quoted Tinubu as saying.

“Please return home and ensure that the court ruling is implemented without delay. I am placing the responsibility in your hands—help intervene both privately and publicly, counsel the governor, and promote peace and stability.”

Tinubu revealed that he had foreseen the crisis in Rivers State and had made efforts to prevent it from escalating.

“Yes, the Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg, and we must take care of it. Otherwise, we risk losing the golden egg. I received your concerns, particularly about Rivers State. I have been involved in this issue for some time and anticipated the crisis long before intervening,” he said.

“We reached a written agreement, and both parties signed it.”

On his part, King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom and Co-Chairman of the PANDEF Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude to the President for his dedication to the South-South region and the appointments given to Niger Delta indigenes.

“Your government has taken decisive action, and we are confident you will succeed. We are here to express our support and assure you of our commitment. May God bless Nigeria and your administration,” he said.