Nigeria’s Leadership Crisis Requires Divine Intervention – APC Chieftain A senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has called for divine intervention to rescue Nigeria from the challenges of poor governance. In a statement issued in Port Harcourt, Eze urged Nigerians, especially the Muslim community, to intensify prayers for the country’s leaders, including Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to receive the wisdom and strength needed to drive progress and prosperity. Call for National Prayers Amid Governance Concerns Eze emphasized the need for Nigerians to pray for peace, unity, and national stability amidst what he described as “constitutional aberrations and maladministration” under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership. He specifically called for prayers for key government figures, including: Eze expressed concerns over the way the current administration is running the country, stating that the governance style of President Tinubu and his associates necessitates urgent divine intervention. The Need for Constitutional Governance The APC chieftain further urged Nigerians to seek divine guidance in efforts to rebuild the nation and restore democratic values. He stressed the importance of redirecting President Tinubu’s administration towards a governance style rooted in the rule of law and respect for the Nigerian Constitution. “These leaders, in the name of politics, are neglecting constitutional rights and manipulating the judiciary to serve their interests, forgetting that power is transient,” Eze remarked. Allegations of Constitutional Violations Eze criticized what he referred to as unconstitutional acts, pointing to the alleged imposition of a state of emergency and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State Assembly by the President. According to him, such actions undermine democracy and must be addressed before they further destabilize the nation. He concluded by reiterating the need for sustained prayers and public awareness, urging citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in holding leaders accountable. For further insights on Nigeria’s democratic journey, read our article on The Role of Good Governance in National Development BBC’s report on Nigeria’s political landscape READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Chijoke Ihunwo, the former Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a state of emergency in the region. Ihunwo argued that the declaration was unjustified, emphasizing that Governor Sim Fubara is a man of peace and has no affiliation with militant groups. No Justification for State of Emergency During an interview on Arise TV’s Morning Show, Ihunwo dismissed claims of insecurity or conflict in Rivers State. He stressed that allegations of pipeline vandalism in the state were unfounded, citing statements from the concerned company denying any such incident. “There is no war in Rivers State. The reports about pipeline vandalism are untrue, as the company itself has clarified that no such event took place,” Ihunwo stated. Governor Fubara’s Compliance with Legal Directives Ihunwo further asserted that Governor Fubara has fully complied with the Supreme Court’s ruling and remains committed to upholding the rule of law. “Our governor is a peaceful leader with no ties to militancy. He has strictly followed the Supreme Court’s decision, yet Mr. President has acted in error by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State,” he added. Rivers State Political Crisis: A Power Struggle The crisis in Rivers State intensified after President Tinubu’s decision to suspend Governor Fubara, the deputy governor, and all state House of Assembly members for six months. The political turmoil stemmed from a rift between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Fubara. A faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martins Amaewhule, initially claimed to have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, the Supreme Court ruled against their defection and reinstated them, directing Governor Fubara to present the 2025 budget. Despite the ruling, Fubara faced resistance when attempting to present the budget, as the faction led by Amaewhule blocked his access to the Assembly complex, escalating the political crisis. Repercussions of Tinubu’s Decision Critics argue that the state of emergency imposed by President Tinubu may set a dangerous precedent for governance in Nigeria. Experts suggest that political conflicts should be resolved through dialogue rather than drastic executive actions. For a deeper analysis of political crises and governance in Nigeria, read this report by Premium Times. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Coalition for Democracy and Development (CDD) has issued a strong call to action, urging key figures in the ongoing Rivers State political crisis, particularly Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to sign a peace accord within the next 90 days. In a statement signed by its convener, Dr. George Ifure, the coalition emphasized that failure to reach a peaceful resolution would place full responsibility for the crisis squarely on both leaders. According to CDD, the persistent political turmoil in Rivers is a direct consequence of poor leadership and self-serving interests exhibited by both the current FCT Minister, Wike, and the incumbent governor, Fubara. Call for Immediate Action The coalition strongly criticized the decisions made by both politicians, highlighting that their actions have aggravated tensions in the state. CDD noted that the welfare of Rivers residents has been neglected in favor of personal political gains. Recent reports from LMSINT MEDIA confirm that the political crisis in Rivers has escalated to the extent that President Bola Tinubu was compelled to declare a state of emergency. This decision led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the state assembly. Despite the peace agreement signed between the two leaders in December 2023, tensions have continued to rise, making a fresh peace pact urgent. Nigerians Demand Accountability Concerned about the deteriorating situation, CDD has warned that Nigerians will hold Wike and Fubara accountable if they fail to take decisive steps toward peace. The coalition reiterated its stance: The coalition urged President Tinubu to make history by resolving the Rivers State crisis effectively and fairly, emphasizing that this moment requires bold and people-centered leadership. For more updates on the Rivers State crisis, visit BBC News. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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In an unprecedented move, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, a key oil-producing region, leading to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state’s lawmakers for six months. This decision follows escalating political tensions and increased pipeline vandalism affecting Nigeria’s oil output. Emergency Declared Over Political Crisis and Pipeline Vandalism The crisis in Rivers State has been intensifying for months due to a power struggle between the incumbent governor and state legislators, many of whom are loyal to his predecessor. This week, lawmakers initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara, accusing him of constitutional violations, including irregularities in the state budget presentation and the composition of the legislative chamber. Amidst these tensions, reports surfaced of multiple acts of pipeline vandalism, including an explosion on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, which contributes significantly to Nigeria’s crude oil exports. President Tinubu, in a national address, cited the governor’s failure to prevent these incidents as a key reason for imposing emergency rule. Military Administrator Appointed to Govern Rivers State Following the suspension of the governor and legislators, President Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, as the military administrator of Rivers State. The judiciary will continue to function, ensuring the state maintains legal and institutional operations. Military trucks were swiftly deployed to the Rivers State Government House to enforce the emergency directives. Legal Concerns and Historical Context The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticized the president’s decision, arguing that suspending elected officials is unconstitutional. NBA President Afam Osigwe stated, “A declaration of emergency does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments.” This move marks the first state of emergency declaration in Nigeria in over a decade. The last such declaration was in 2013 under President Goodluck Jonathan in the northeastern states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe, during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency. However, at that time, state governors remained in office. Implications for Nigeria’s Democracy and Oil Sector The suspension of elected officials has sparked concerns over democratic governance in Nigeria, a country with a history of military rule. Additionally, the escalating crisis in Rivers State threatens the stability of Nigeria’s oil sector, which is critical to the nation’s economy. For more updates on Nigeria’s political developments and the impact on the oil sector, visit BBC News. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Former Governor El-Rufai Accuses APC of Engineering Internal Disputes in Opposition Parties Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of being responsible for the ongoing internal conflicts within major opposition parties in Nigeria, including the Labour Party (LP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). El-Rufai’s Claims Against APC In a widely circulated video on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, El-Rufai alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s government is strategically fueling disputes within these parties to destabilize their leadership structures. “The crisis in the Labour Party is deliberately engineered and funded by the current administration, and everyone is aware of it,” El-Rufai asserted. “The constant legal battles are orchestrated to distract the party leadership from focusing on governance. This same pattern is visible in the PDP and even the NNPP.” APC’s Alleged Role in NNPP’s Internal Struggles El-Rufai also pointed to the reported expulsion of a key NNPP figure, Rabiu Kwankwaso, as evidence of external interference aimed at weakening the party. “The last report I read about NNPP stated that one faction expelled Kwankwaso along with the sitting governor. When a party removes its only governor, it becomes evident that the crisis is staged,” he remarked. “I don’t have all the details, but it’s clear what’s happening.” El-Rufai’s Exit from APC His statements come just a day after he officially resigned from the APC and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP). According to El-Rufai, his departure was due to APC’s deviation from its founding principles, which originally emphasized good governance and democratic values. Reactions and Political Implications El-Rufai’s allegations have sparked discussions across political circles, with many questioning the extent of government interference in opposition party affairs. The claims add to the ongoing debate about Nigeria’s democratic process and the ruling party’s influence over political opposition. Conclusion As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, these accusations raise concerns about the integrity of the democratic process. Whether APC will respond to El-Rufai’s claims remains to be seen, but the unfolding situation will undoubtedly shape the country’s political future. Read more on Nigeria’s political affairs READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his commitment to fully enforcing the Supreme Court ruling regarding the state’s ongoing political crisis. He emphasized that the well-being and progress of Rivers State take precedence over personal interests. Speaking at the inauguration of the newly completed Judges’ Quarters in Old GRA, Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Governor Fubara assured that his administration would ensure total compliance with the court’s decision. Supreme Court Ruling: Rivers State’s Interest Comes First Reflecting on his 16-month tenure, the governor acknowledged the challenges faced but reiterated that the primary focus remains the prosperity of Rivers State. “It has been a tough journey, but our priority is the state’s interest above all. I want to make it clear that my administration will fully implement the Supreme Court ruling. This is not about me; it is about the future and development of Rivers State,” Fubara stated. The governor also lamented the financial losses incurred during the political turmoil, noting that such resources could have been better utilized for the state’s development. Commitment to Judicial Welfare: Judges’ Quarters Commissioned Governor Fubara highlighted the significance of the Judges’ Quarters project, which underscores his administration’s dedication to judicial welfare. He noted that the project, inherited from the previous administration, was prioritized based on recommendations from the Ministry of Justice and judiciary stakeholders. Expressing satisfaction with the project’s completion, Fubara said, “We give thanks to God that we have completed this housing facility. We are ready to hand it over to our judges, ensuring they have a comfortable space to carry out their duties effectively.” He also stressed the need for proper maintenance of the quarters, pledging his administration’s continued support in that regard. Chief Judge Commends Fubara’s Dedication to Judiciary During the commissioning, Rivers State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for continuing and completing the project, initially initiated by the past administration on May 22, 2023. He lauded the initiative as a landmark achievement and a significant step in judicial development. Justice Amadi emphasized that the Rivers State Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers, established under Law No. 10 of 2021, ensures judges are provided with official quarters or financial compensation in lieu. He added that the policy reduces the financial burden on judicial officers, allowing them to focus on their work without the pressure of securing retirement homes. Housing Scheme for Judicial Officers In her remarks, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Ibiwari Clapton-Ogolo, explained that the housing scheme is exclusively for judges who are either indigenes of Rivers State by birth or marriage. The initiative ensures that judicial officers receive suitable accommodation or financial compensation with government approval. “The Honourable Chief Judge of Rivers State will commission seven exquisitely furnished five-bedroom duplexes today. This is in line with our commitment to providing decent and befitting residences for our judges. These are not just houses but homes where they will find peace and comfort while serving justice,” Clapton-Ogolo stated. Fubara: Committed to Peace and Development Governor Fubara reaffirmed his stance on prioritizing peace and the state’s progress. “I stand by my words: No price is too high for peace in Rivers State. Ultimately, it is about our people. I will leave office one day, but the impact of the good work we do today will speak for me and my administration.” Nigeria Supreme Court Decisions READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
