Alhaji Atiku Abubakar criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, stating it represents political manipulation. He claims Tinubu is a partisan actor in the crisis contributing to unrest and infrastructure damage in the region. Atiku argues that the president bears responsibility for the ongoing turmoil and the regression of peace in the Niger Delta.
Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar criticized President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, which stems from ongoing political unrest and incidents such as pipeline bombings. Atiku labeled the declaration as a demonstration of political manipulation and expressed his belief that the situation is rooted in Tinubu’s actions as a ‘partisan actor’ in the crisis.
Atiku’s assertions came shortly after President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state Assembly members. In a public announcement, Tinubu expressed his concern regarding the political crisis that has rendered Rivers State stagnant, asserting that good governance has been denied to its residents. He noted, “No responsible President will stand by without taking action,” prompting the emergency declaration and suspension.
In his response, Atiku condemned the president’s failure to address the crisis proactively, stating that Tinubu’s inaction has contributed to the escalation of conflict. He accused the president of having a vested interest in the political turmoil in Rivers, asserting, “His blatant refusal or calculated negligence in preventing this escalation is nothing short of disgraceful.”
Atiku also emphasized that the deterioration of security leading to damage of national infrastructure in Rivers is ultimately the president’s responsibility. He decried Tinubu’s administration for returning the Niger Delta to instability, which threatens the long-lasting peace established by former President Umaru Yar’Adua. Atiku lamented the situation as an “unforgivable failure,” criticizing the punitive measures against Rivers residents as a political maneuver rather than a solution.
In summary, Atiku Abubakar’s criticism of President Tinubu highlights the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which he attributes significantly to the president’s actions and inactions. The declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of state officials are viewed as politically motivated, rather than as genuine attempts to restore peace and governance. Atiku emphasizes that the consequences of the unrest in the Niger Delta fall squarely on the president’s shoulders, marking a deterioration of the region’s stability and security.
Original Source: allafrica.com
