The Rivers State Government has expressed surprise over President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a State of Emergency on the state, insisting that the Siminalayi Fubara administration was effectively governing the state.
In a statement released late Tuesday, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Warisenibo Johnson, conveyed the government’s stance on the matter.
President Tinubu’s declaration, which has sparked widespread controversy, included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state’s lawmakers for six months.
Additionally, the president appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the interim administrator of the oil-producing state for the same duration.
Justifying his actions, the president cited multiple concerns, including the prolonged political crisis in the state, the implications of a recent Supreme Court ruling, and reported cases of oil pipeline vandalism allegedly carried out by militants sympathetic to Governor Fubara amid his political standoff with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
However, in his reaction, Commissioner Johnson questioned why Governor Fubara was suspended while Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, remained in office despite his involvement in the crisis.
According to Johnson, Fubara had acted in line with the Supreme Court’s judgment and had made sincere efforts to implement the agreements reached in resolving the political impasse.
His statement read, “I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.
“Since our dear Governor assumed office as your Governor, all his actions and decisions have been guided by his constitutional oath of office and a great sense of duty.
“He prioritized the protection of lives and property and ensured the continuous progress of our dear State.
“Even in the face of the political impasse, he remained committed to constitutional order and the rule of law, putting the interest of our people above all else.
“This was why, immediately after Mr. President’s intervention to broker peace, we did not hesitate to implement the agreed terms in good faith, including welcoming back commissioners who had previously resigned on their own volition.
“Furthermore, we moved swiftly to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgement immediately we received the certified true copy of the judgement to return the state to normalcy.
“These steps were taken not for personal gains but to foster peace, unity and stability in our dear State.
“Unfortunately, at every turn, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by the minister of FCT, frustrated our efforts, thus making genuine peace and progress difficult. That is why it is shocking that Mr. President sacked the Governor and left his minister who is the principal actor.
“Our priorities remained the security of lives and property and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Rivers people.
“Yes, we have political disagreements, but good governance had continued, salaries have been paid, and great projects were being executed to move the State forward. Above all, Rivers State is safe, secure and peaceful under our watch.
“At this critical time, we urge all Rivers people to remain peaceful and law-abiding. We will engage with all relevant institutions to ensure that our democracy remains strong and that Rivers State continues to thrive.
“We have always been a resilient people, and we will face this situation with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in the democratic process.”
As reactions continue to trail the president’s decision, many Nigerians are questioning the fairness and political implications of the emergency declaration, with calls for a thorough review of the situation.
