The Zone A Peoples’ Assembly (ZAPA) has issued a strong appeal to Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, urging him to declare a state of emergency on security in response to the escalating violence and widespread displacement currently plaguing many communities. During a press briefing held in Makurdi on Sunday, ZAPA President Fanen Mondo described the ongoing attacks as a series of “coordinated and deadly strikes” allegedly perpetrated by armed herders, including some he believes to be foreign mercenaries. The affected areas include Chito in Ukum, Tor Donga in Katsina-Ala, Turan in Kwande, Aôndoana in Gwer West, Yelwata in Guma, Apa, and Agatu. Mondo emphasized that Governor Alia should not merely declare the emergency, but also personally lead the state’s security interventions while actively engaging the Federal Government to combat the deteriorating situation. “What links all these places is not just the carnage but the deafening silence — a silence from those who should be speaking out and taking action,” Mondo said. He denounced what he called political indifference by state leaders, noting that silence in the face of such attacks could be seen as tacit complicity. “Remaining silent isn’t being neutral — it’s being complicit. And the citizens of Benue understand that clearly,” Mondo asserted. The ZAPA president also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to acknowledge the support given to him by the Benue people during the 2023 general elections and take swift action. He advocated for the deployment of military personnel to the affected areas and the provision of emergency relief for displaced residents. “Benue does not need a quiet leader; we need a proactive field commander who will rise to defend our ancestral lands,” Mondo concluded.
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has openly accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of violating Nigeria’s constitution over his handling of the political crisis in Rivers State. Amaechi expressed strong concern about what he described as the unconstitutional removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the subsequent declaration of a state of emergency, actions he believes undermine the rule of law and democratic values in the country. Speaking at the 9th Annual Leadership Discourse hosted by the Akinjide Adeosun Foundation (AAF) in Lagos, themed “Fearless Leadership: A Panacea for Sustainable Development”, the former Rivers State Governor criticized the decision as a breach of the country’s highest legal authority—the Constitution. Amaechi Blasts Weak National Assembly Amaechi did not only criticize the president but also expressed deep disappointment in the National Assembly, which he labeled a “very weak institution” for allegedly aiding and abetting what he termed the installation of an unconstitutional government in Rivers State. “In a system where leaders act on their whims rather than the law, governance becomes tyrannical,” he said. “The current state of emergency declared in Rivers State is not just illegal—it violates the very sacredness of our Constitution.” He continued, “What we are witnessing is not merely a disregard for legal principles, but a complete breakdown of constitutional order. The president didn’t just break the law; he broke the Nigerian Constitution.” Violation of Democratic Norms Rotimi Amaechi likened the Nigerian Constitution to a sacred document, comparing it to a nation’s Bible, whose sanctity should not be compromised. He lamented that despite the removal of a duly elected governor and the appointment of a retired military officer, Ibok-Ete Ibas, as an administrator, there has been no public accountability or major institutional resistance. “The removal of an elected governor and his deputy, followed by appointing a military administrator, signals a dangerous drift away from democracy,” Amaechi warned. Background on the Rivers State Crisis The crisis in Rivers State escalated in recent weeks following political disagreements within the state assembly. In response, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency, suspended the governor and his deputy, and installed a military administrator. This move has sparked outrage among political analysts, civil society groups, and opposition leaders across the country. Related Articles (LMSINT Media) BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, a former governorship aspirant in Zamfara State and a prominent member of the Bola Tinubu/Kashim Shettima Presidential Campaign Council 2023, has firmly rejected the growing calls for a state of emergency in the state. Speaking on behalf of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, Shinkafi alleged that these calls are politically motivated and backed by unsuccessful politicians who are attempting to destabilize the current administration. Political Motives Behind Emergency Calls According to Shinkafi, the individuals pushing for emergency measures are doing so with the intention to grab power through unconstitutional means, driven by greed and desperation to loot state resources. “These expired politicians are hallucinating about power,” Shinkafi stated. “They have no regard for the Constitution and are attempting to mislead the public and disrupt progress in Zamfara.” Constitutional Misunderstanding and Democratic Norms Shinkafi emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution clearly outlines the conditions required for removing an elected governor or imposing a state of emergency. He condemned any suggestion of appointing a sole administrator as an undemocratic practice. He further stated: “Zamfara does not qualify for any constitutional basis to impose a state of emergency. Calls for such action are merely attempts to overheat the polity and distract the public.” For reference, Nigeria’s constitutional guidelines regarding a state of emergency can be reviewed here. Support for Governor Dauda Lawal Shinkafi praised Governor Dauda Lawal’s leadership, highlighting improvements in security, economic activity, and infrastructure since he assumed office on May 29, 2023. “Governor Lawal has made remarkable strides in fighting banditry, supported by the President and our security forces,” Shinkafi noted. “Public safety has improved, and citizens now enjoy better services and a functioning economy.” Zamfara’s Progress under Lawal’s Administration The administration has also implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage for civil servants and promised to address pending issues affecting senior civil service wages. These are key components of Governor Lawal’s Rescue Mission agenda, aimed at restoring dignity and prosperity to the people of Zamfara. If you’re curious about Governor Lawal’s Rescue Mission and governance strategy, check out our internal report: Governor Dauda Lawal’s Vision for a Secure and Prosperous Zamfara A Call for Political Maturity and Patriotism Shinkafi urged politicians in Zamfara to prioritize development and peace over politics, especially as the next general elections in 2027 are still years away. “This is not the time for politicking. It’s a time for unity, growth, and national interest,” he said. “Let’s build a better Zamfara and preserve our democracy.” Conclusion: Upholding Democracy and Rejecting Disruption Shinkafi’s firm stance reflects a broader call to uphold democratic values and protect constitutional integrity in Nigeria. He urges President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian public to ignore those seeking to undermine peace and progress in Zamfara State. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
ABUJA – March 2025 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially communicated with the Nigerian Senate regarding the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The letter, detailing a six-month suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, was presented during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Tinubu’s Proclamation on Rivers State Emergency Following constitutional provisions under Section 305(2) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, President Tinubu’s letter outlined the key aspects of the proclamation: The letter further emphasized the urgency of Senate deliberation and approval, with President Tinubu expressing confidence in an expedited review. Senate’s Response and Closed-Door Session Following the reading of the proclamation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio promptly referred the matter to the full Senate Committee for immediate consideration. In response, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) raised a motion under Order 133, advocating for a closed-door session to deliberate on the proclamation. The Senate’s plenary session, which commenced at 12:00 PM, proceeded with procedural adoptions, including the Votes and Proceedings of the previous session, formally moved by Senator Barinada Mpigi (PDP, Rivers South East) and seconded by Senator Idiat Adebute (APC, Lagos West). Constitutional and Political Implications The state of emergency in Rivers State has sparked significant political and constitutional debates. Analysts believe this move could set a precedent for federal intervention in state governance. A similar case occurred in 2004 in Plateau State, reinforcing the legal framework for such declarations. For further insights into the implications of this proclamation, visit the Nigerian Law Reform Commission‘s official analysis: Click here. Stay updated with Premium Times for the latest political developments in Nigeria. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
ABUJA – The Nigerian Senate has officially approved President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation imposing a six-month emergency rule on Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State. The resolution was reached on Thursday following a closed-door session lasting over an hour. Senate’s Decision on Rivers State Emergency Rule Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the approval after deliberations based on Senate Orders 133, 134, 135, and 136. Prior to this, Akpabio read aloud a formal letter from President Tinubu detailing the emergency measure. The letter, in compliance with Section 305, Subsection 2 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended), outlined key aspects of the proclamation: The letter further urged the Senate to expedite action on the confirmation process. Legislative Actions and Reactions Following the reading of the proclamation, Senate President Akpabio directed that the matter be immediately referred to the entire Senate Committee for urgent consideration and passage. Meanwhile, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) raised a motion under Senate Order 133, calling for a closed-door discussion on the development. Implications of the Emergency Rule The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is expected to impact governance, security, and administrative processes significantly. With the governor and state legislators suspended, Vice-Admiral Iboete Iba is set to take over as the state’s administrator, pending further directives from the presidency. External Source for Verification For a more in-depth analysis of emergency rule declarations in Nigeria, refer to this article by Premium Times Stay tuned for updates as this developing situation unfolds. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
Rivers State Crisis: Communities Warn of Potential Guerrilla Warfare Less than 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, oil and gas-producing communities in the Niger Delta have raised concerns that this decision could ignite guerrilla warfare in the region. The alarm follows the recent explosion on the Trans-Niger oil pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, an incident believed to be linked to ex-militants disgruntled over pipeline surveillance contract exclusions. Political Instability Could Escalate Economic Crisis Speaking with Vanguard, Joseph Ambakaderimo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Community Development Committees (CDC) of Niger Delta Oil and Gas-Producing Areas, warned that the political turmoil in Rivers State could severely impact Nigeria’s economy if not handled with diplomacy. He criticized the president’s decision, stating, “Declaring a state of emergency under these circumstances is premature and could provoke a larger crisis. If this spirals into guerrilla warfare, the economic damage will be enormous.” Ambakaderimo further revealed that certain ex-militants, previously engaged in pipeline surveillance, feel neglected and may be resorting to sabotage to draw attention to their plight. Urgent Need to Reassess Pipeline Surveillance Contracts He emphasized that the federal government must immediately review the surveillance contracts to promote inclusivity and avoid further sabotage. “With only two out of six NLNG Train operations currently functional, the country is already facing a gas shortage. If crude oil production is similarly affected, the economy will suffer drastic consequences,” he noted. He recommended that the government engage the CDC to mediate between stakeholders and ensure equitable contract distribution. Governor Fubara Urged to Seek Presidential Dialogue Despite the emergency declaration, Ambakaderimo encouraged Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to seek diplomatic dialogue with President Tinubu through respected statesmen to facilitate a reversal of the decision. He also condemned the 27 state lawmakers for ignoring a Supreme Court ruling while focusing on political maneuvering to impeach Governor Fubara, allegedly at the behest of political leader Nyesom Wike. “Governor Fubara has attempted to uphold the court’s judgment, even at personal risk, while lawmakers prioritize political interests. They rejected the governor’s budget proposal and acted against judicial directives,” he asserted. State of Emergency Threatens Oil Production Stability Ambakaderimo reiterated that escalating political conflicts could reduce daily crude oil output, posing significant economic threats. “A well-thought-out approach is needed. Reversing the emergency decision would demonstrate the administration’s commitment to national stability and economic growth,” he concluded. Vanguard News on Rivers State Crisis READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
