By Chukwuemerie Uduchukwu
In a decisive move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this evening, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, invoking Section 305 of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution as amended. This declaration was arguably the only viable option left for the President, given the alarming situation in the state. Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s apparent naivety and failure to act promptly to secure his powers and influence as the Chief Executive of Rivers State have left the federal government with little choice but to intervene.
Fubara’s recent statements urging Rivers State youth to “standby for his instruction to act” are not only reckless but also deeply concerning. In a time when the state is grappling with issues of security and stability, such rhetoric can easily be interpreted as a call to arms, potentially inciting violence and unrest. The recent reports of pipeline explosions in the state further exacerbate these concerns, leading many to speculate that Fubara may be willing to sponsor criminal activities that could devastate national infrastructure. This reckless behaviour poses a significant threat not only to the security of Rivers State but also to the economy of the entire Niger Delta region and, by extension, the nation.
It is essential to consider that Fubara may even prefer the state of emergency to impeachment. The declaration effectively suspends the Nigerian Constitution in Rivers State for six months, which means that the state House of Assembly, the judiciary, and local government officials are automatically suspended from their duties. During this period, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) will serve as the state administrator, taking direct instructions from the President. This arrangement effectively side-lines Fubara and the members of the House of Assembly, whom he has been at odds with, placing them in an unplanned hiatus. Even the former governor, Nyesom Wike, who has a perceived relationship with the newly appointed administrator, will find himself in a position where he cannot exert influence, as Ibas is bound to follow the directives of the President.
The political implications of this state of emergency are significant. While it may seem like a setback for Fubara and his allies, the ultimate winner in this scenario is Nigeria itself, along with President Tinubu, who has taken a bold step to restore order. The declaration of a state of emergency, while requiring confirmation from the National Assembly, is unlikely to face opposition. The gravity of the situation in Rivers State and the potential for widespread unrest will likely compel lawmakers to support the President’s decision.
As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Tinubu has a critical responsibility during this period of emergency. It is imperative that he utilizes this time effectively to restore law, order, and security in Rivers State. Any individual or group that seeks to sabotage these efforts should be dealt with decisively and, if necessary, in a military manner. The stakes are too high for any leniency in the face of potential threats to national security.
Moreover, as the father of the nation, President Tinubu should take this opportunity to invite both Fubara and Wike to the negotiating table for possible reconciliation. It is crucial that both leaders understand that the interests of Nigeria supersede their personal ambitions or grievances. Any individual who does not prioritize justice and peace during this critical time should be isolated from the political landscape of Nigeria and Rivers State until the end of the President’s first term.
The stability of the nation must take precedence over individual political aspirations. Ultimately, the focus must remain on restoring peace and security in Rivers State, ensuring that the interests of the nation are upheld above all else.
Chukwuemerie Uduchukwu writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
