The political turmoil in Rivers State has taken a new turn as prominent South-South leaders and stakeholders strongly criticize President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency.
Many see this move as politically motivated, aimed at undermining Governor Siminalayi Fubara while empowering the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
“Ill-Advised and Unconstitutional” – Former Akwa Ibom Attorney General
Uwemedimo Nwoko, SAN, a former Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State, described the president’s action as unconstitutional and poorly thought out.
“The situation in Rivers does not meet the constitutional criteria for a state of emergency. This decision appears to be a calculated attempt to seize control of the state.”
“One-Sided Intervention” – Former IYC President
Eric Omare, former president of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), also condemned Tinubu’s move, calling it unfair and biased.
“The president has taken sides. His intervention has only emboldened Wike, worsening the crisis instead of resolving it.”
Omare argues that if Governor Fubara is being blamed for not handling the situation well, then Wike should also be held accountable for escalating tensions.
PANDEF: We Are Monitoring the Situation
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), a leading socio-political group in the region, has expressed concern over the president’s decision.
“This crisis could have been avoided. We are carefully observing the situation and will soon make our position known.”
“A Well-Planned Political Strategy” – Ex-MOSIEND Spokesperson
Amaebi Clarkson, former national spokesman of the Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), believes the emergency rule is part of a larger political agenda leading up to the 2027 elections.
“This is not about security. It’s a political strategy, carefully executed to weaken Fubara and solidify Wike’s influence.”
Clarkson also pointed out that while Wike provoked tensions, it was Fubara who was punished, a move that suggests bias from the presidency.
“This is Oppression” – Ijaw Youth Council
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) sees the declaration as an outright case of oppression against the Ijaw people.
“We have states battling insurgency for years without emergency rule. But now, because it’s an Ijaw matter, the president quickly declares one? This is political intimidation.”
A Chance for Reconciliation?
While many are outraged, Edo APC chieftain Charles Idahosa believes this could be an opportunity for peace.
“Now that the state of emergency is in place, all parties—Fubara, Wike, and lawmakers—should come together and find a way to resolve their differences.”
Final Thoughts
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers has sparked heated debates across the country. Many believe it is a political maneuver rather than a necessary intervention.
Will this decision bring peace or deepen the crisis? Only time will tell.
What’s Your Take?
Do you think Tinubu’s move was justified, or is it an attempt to undermine Fubara? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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