President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers amid political and security issues, supported by the APC. The governor and local lawmakers are suspended for six months, and a retired vice admiral will oversee the state’s management. The judiciary is unaffected by the emergency declaration.
In a recent nationwide broadcast, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers due to escalating political tension and severe security issues. The announcement follows alarming reports of oil pipeline vandalism by militants and a lack of initiative from the state’s governor to address these threats.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), through its National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, has expressed support for the president’s decision. Basiru emphasized that this move is crucial for restoring peace in Rivers, labeling the state as rapidly approaching a state of failure.
Highlighting the deficiencies in governance, Basiru noted that both the executive and legislative branches in Rivers have not fulfilled their constitutional responsibilities to protect citizens’ welfare. He cautioned other states, like Osun, to heed this warning before facing a similar emergency.
President Tinubu has tasked security agencies with protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure throughout Rivers. He announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and local lawmakers for an initial six-month period, with a retired vice admiral, Ibok-Ete Ibas, appointed as administrator during the emergency.
Crucially, the judiciary in Rivers will remain operational and unaffected by this state of emergency declaration, continuing to fulfill its constitutional roles.
President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers addresses urgent security and political issues, particularly rampant oil pipeline vandalism. Supported by the APC, this move aims to restore order in a state perceived as failing in governance. With an appointed administrator to oversee the region and ongoing judicial functions, the initiative seeks to safeguard the lives and property of Rivers residents.
Original Source: allafrica.com
