The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, resulting in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator, has elicited a spectrum of reactions from various stakeholders.
Federal Government’s Position
The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) defended the president’s decision, attributing it to Governor Fubara’s alleged inaction against pipeline vandalism and militant activities. The AGF emphasized that the declaration aimed to prevent further deterioration of security and governance in the state.
Rivers State House of Assembly’s Response
The Rivers State House of Assembly expressed support for the emergency measures and the appointment of the sole administrator. They attributed the intervention to the governor’s purported misconduct and endorsed the federal government’s actions to restore order.
Opposition from PDP Governors
Governors from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) criticized the imposition of emergency rule and the suspension of elected officials. They accused President Tinubu of political bias, particularly favoring Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and argued that the move undermines democratic principles.
Rivers State Government’s Reaction
Officials from the Rivers State government expressed surprise at the emergency declaration, asserting that the state was under proper governance. They questioned the selective suspension of Governor Fubara while Minister Wike remained unaffected, suggesting inconsistencies in the federal government’s approach.
Legal Community’s Perspective
The Nigerian Bar Association criticized the suspension of elected officials as unconstitutional, emphasizing that a state of emergency does not dissolve elected governments.
Public Sentiment and Media Coverage
Public opinion appears divided, with some supporting the federal intervention to address security concerns, while others view it as an overreach infringing on democratic governance. Media outlets have reported on the calm in Port Harcourt as residents anticipate the arrival of the sole administrator.
In summary, the emergency rule and appointment of a sole administrator in Rivers State have sparked diverse reactions, reflecting tensions between federal authority and state autonomy, as well as concerns over constitutional adherence and political impartiality.
For a more in-depth analysis, you might find the following video insightful:
Stay with Headlinewaves ng
