State Of Emergency In Rivers: Obidike Praises Tinubu For Preventing Fubara’s Impeachment

The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has triggered intense reactions across Nigeria. Various stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), legal analysts, political figures, and groups such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Ijaw Youths, have expressed divergent opinions. While many have criticized the move, others see it as a strategic intervention in the unfolding political turmoil.

Hon. Obidike Chukwuebuka, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has praised President Tinubu’s decision, stating that Governor Siminalayi Fubara should be grateful for the intervention. According to Obidike, Tinubu’s move effectively prevented an imminent impeachment that could have led to Fubara’s removal from office.

In a statement shared with Vanguard on Wednesday, Obidike highlighted Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the President to declare a state of emergency, thereby suspending the authority of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and other state government structures. He argued that this legal provision granted Tinubu the authority to stabilize Rivers State’s governance during the crisis.

Although reports of an impeachment plot against Governor Fubara remain unverified, Tinubu’s intervention has undoubtedly reshaped the state’s political dynamics. His efforts to foster peace and cooperation were further demonstrated in a recent high-level meeting involving Fubara and key stakeholders. The President reportedly emphasized the need for unity and political stability to ensure effective governance in Rivers State.

“As developments continue to unfold, it is evident that Governor Fubara’s political trajectory is closely linked to President Tinubu’s influence,” Obidike remarked, suggesting that the intervention could have long-term ramifications for the state’s governance. Read more about Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution and state of emergency provisions