Utomi To Tinubu: Why Declare State Of Emergency In Rivers But Not In Lagos?

Utomi to Tinubu: Why Declare State of Emergency in Rivers But Not Lagos?

Renowned political economist, Prof Pat Utomi, has expressed strong reservations over President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State. Utomi questioned why the president did not take similar action during political crises in Lagos, particularly the turmoil surrounding Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.

Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers

In a national address on Tuesday, March 18, 2024, President Tinubu justified the emergency rule in Rivers State, citing increasing militant activities, particularly pipeline vandalization, and political instability in the state.

Following this decision, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the state’s administrator, while Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Prof Ngozi Odu, and all elected House of Assembly members were suspended.

Utomi Faults Tinubu’s Justification

Speaking on Channels Television, Prof Utomi criticized the move, arguing that previous administrations had faced similar security threats without resorting to emergency rule. He recalled a period when militants in Rivers State were actively attacking oil pipelines, yet no emergency declaration was made.

Why Not Lagos?

Utomi also pointed out that despite the political instability involving Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and lawmakers in Lagos, Tinubu did not impose emergency rule there.

“What exactly in Rivers State necessitated a state of emergency? During past crises when pipelines were destroyed like popcorn, was there an emergency rule? Why was there no emergency rule in Lagos when the Assembly faced instability? Where is the fairness and equity in this decision?” Utomi questioned.

National Assembly’s Endorsement Criticized

Beyond questioning Tinubu’s decision, Utomi condemned the National Assembly for approving the emergency rule, describing their endorsement as an affront to democracy and an insult to Nigerians.

Conclusion

Utomi’s remarks have intensified debates on the fairness of Tinubu’s approach to governance. Many Nigerians are now scrutinizing the rationale behind selective emergency rule enforcement.

For a deeper analysis on the impact of state of emergency declarations, read more on BBC News.

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