South-South Leaders Decry Emergency Rule In Rivers State

South-South Leaders Decry Emergency Rule in Rivers State

The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked widespread criticism from South-South leaders and political stakeholders. Many have labeled the move as unconstitutional and a direct attempt to take control of the oil-rich region, further fueling tensions.

Former Akwa Ibom Attorney General Calls Move “Ill-Advised”

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Uwemedimo Nwoko, a former Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State, strongly opposed the emergency rule, stating it does not align with constitutional provisions. According to him, “The conditions required for a state of emergency have not been met. This decision appears to be a calculated political maneuver rather than a legitimate action.”

Ijaw Youth Council Rejects Tinubu’s Decision

Ex-President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Eric Omare, also condemned the decision, asserting that President Tinubu’s intervention has been biased. “Removing Governor Siminalayi Fubara will not resolve the crisis. Instead, it emboldens those fueling the conflict,” Omare stated. He further accused the administration of favoring the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, who has been at the center of the controversy.

PANDEF Monitoring the Situation

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body for the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed grave concern over the development. PANDEF spokesperson Chief Obiuwevbi Ominimini stated, “We are seriously alarmed by the state of emergency imposed in Rivers State. This crisis was avoidable, and we will soon release our official stance on the matter.”

Ex-MOSIEND Spokesperson Questions Political Motives

Amaebi Clarkson, former national spokesman of the Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), believes the move is politically motivated ahead of the 2027 elections. “The president’s actions suggest a well-orchestrated script to seize control of Rivers State,” Clarkson remarked. He further accused Wike of instigating the crisis and the federal government of turning a blind eye to his actions.

Ijaw Youth Council Calls It “Oppression”

The Ijaw Youth Council, represented by spokesman Amb. Binebai Princewill, labeled the emergency rule as “oppression and intimidation of Ijaw people.” According to Princewill, “There are states grappling with severe insurgencies from Boko Haram and herdsmen, yet no emergency rule was declared. This targeted action against Rivers State raises serious concerns.”

APC Chieftain Urges Reconciliation

Elder statesman and APC chieftain in Edo State, Hon. Charles Idahosa, sees the situation as an opportunity for resolution. “Fubara, lawmakers, and the FCT Minister must come together and find common ground. The presidency had previously tried to mediate, but the parties involved failed to cooperate. Now is the time to resolve their differences.”

Conclusion

The emergency rule in Rivers State has triggered national debate, with critics questioning the constitutional basis of the decision. While the Nigerian Bar Association and South-South stakeholders have spoken against the move, the federal government insists it is necessary to restore order.

For a deeper understanding of the constitutional implications, read this analysis by a legal expert.

The Guardian – Nigerian Political Crisis