The Federal Government supports President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State to prevent governance collapse and protect economic interests. Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi emphasized the urgency of the intervention due to a prolonged political crisis. The state of emergency suspends key officials and appoints a sole administrator to restore order amid mixed public reactions.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has asserted that President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State was a vital measure to prevent a total governance collapse and protect the nation’s economic interests. This announcement was made by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, who spoke to State House Correspondents at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, emphasizing the necessity of the intervention given the worsening political and security conditions in the state.
Fagbemi noted that the instability in Rivers State had been developing for an extended period. Despite various efforts by the President, well-meaning citizens, and other leaders to mediate the situation, no progress had been made. He articulated that the presiding circumstances posed a risk to the nation’s critical economic life, necessitating immediate action to restore governance and security.
The ongoing crisis in Rivers State is rooted in a long-standing power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. This feud has severely hampered governance, leading to constitutional violations and increasing security threats. In response to the unrest, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
To oversee the state’s governance during this period, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.), who previously served as Chief of Naval Staff. It is expected that Ibas will stabilize the political situation and ensure effective government operations until normalcy is restored. The President referenced the constitutional provision allowing for such declarations, underscoring the gravity of the existing political turmoil.
Reactions to the state of emergency declaration have been mixed. While some stakeholders have praised the decisive measures taken by the President, others have raised concerns regarding potential implications for democracy and the rule of law. Political analysts are urging for a swift resolution of the crisis to prevent prolonged instability within the region.
In conclusion, the Federal Government’s defense of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State highlights the urgency of addressing escalating political and security issues. The appointment of a sole administrator aims to restore governance in the troubled state while pending reactions reflect a mix of support and concern. Moving forward, a resolution is imperative to ensure stability and uphold democratic principles in the region.
Original Source: nairametrics.com
