Tinubu’s emergency rule in Rivers: Restoring order or seizing power?

DDM News

President Bola Tinubu has commended the National Assembly for approving his declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

On Tuesday, Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that he also appointed retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, as the sole administrator of the oil-rich state.

Both the Senate and the House of Representatives ratified the emergency rule after a heated debate on its necessity and legality.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the decision as essential for restoring stability in Rivers State.

He argued that prolonged political instability had crippled governance and posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s economic security.

Tinubu praised Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for prioritizing national interest over political differences.

He emphasized that lawmakers thoroughly reviewed security reports before concluding that urgent intervention was unavoidable.

“The crisis in Rivers State had reached a dangerous tipping point, threatening vital oil and gas infrastructure,” Tinubu stated.

He added that the near-collapse of governance left no room for hesitation in making a decisive move.

Declaring a state of emergency was necessary to prevent widespread violence and protect federal economic assets, Tinubu insisted.

He assured Nigerians that the six-month emergency rule would help stabilize Rivers State and encourage political reconciliation.

The President maintained that this intervention was aimed at safeguarding democracy, ensuring peace, and promoting national stability.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to secure Nigeria’s economic and political future.

“Today’s decision demonstrates the power of unity and patriotism in addressing national challenges,” Tinubu asserted.

He pledged to build a safer, stronger Nigeria where citizens’ rights and opportunities are fully protected.

Tinubu also called on all stakeholders to support efforts to restore peace and stability in Rivers State.

However, critics argue that this move undermines democracy and strengthens federal control over a politically significant state.

Some opposition leaders accuse Tinubu of using the crisis as an excuse to impose direct presidential authority over Rivers State.

Legal experts have raised concerns about the constitutional basis for suspending an elected governor and installing a sole administrator.

Political analysts warn that this decision could set a dangerous precedent for democracy in Nigeria.

Civil society organizations have called for transparency and a clear roadmap for restoring democratic governance in Rivers State.

Many Nigerians remain divided on whether the emergency rule is a necessary intervention or an unjustified overreach of power.

The situation in Rivers State continues to spark intense debate across political, legal, and civil society circles.

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