Renowned actress and politician Hilda Dokubo has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Expressing her disapproval on social media, Dokubo labeled the move as “shameless” and questioned its justification.
In her post, Dokubo highlighted the state’s relative peace over the past two years and suggested that the declaration might be an attempt to control the economic assets of Rivers State.
She wrote: “State of emergency because for two years we have had peace! State of emergency because you want to capture the economic soul of Rivers State! State of emergency because of one man? Shameless!”
President Tinubu announced the state of emergency on March 18, 2025, citing recent incidents of pipeline vandalism by militants and the alleged inaction of the state governor to address these issues.
This declaration led to the suspension of the state governor, his deputy, and all lawmakers, with a retired vice admiral appointed as caretaker for six months.
The decision has sparked varied reactions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the move, stating that it “reeks of political manipulation and outright bad faith.”
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Government has indicated that it is too early to comment on the development.
Rivers State, located in the Niger Delta region, is a major oil-producing area and has experienced political instability in recent times, with internal conflicts within the opposition People’s Democratic Party and threats of impeachment against the governor.
The declaration of a state of emergency allows the federal government to regulate and deploy security forces in Rivers State as necessary.
The National Assembly is expected to review and decide on the president’s proclamation, which does not affect the judicial functions within the state.
