By: Manoah kikekon
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| APC and Sim Fubara |
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political tensions and security challenges.
The decision, announced during a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, aims to address rampant oil pipeline vandalism and restore stability to the oil-rich state.
President Tinubu, in his address, highlighted alarming security reports indicating widespread vandalism of oil pipelines by militants. He expressed concern over the lack of decisive action by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to curb the crisis.
“Recent security briefings have revealed troubling acts of oil pipeline vandalism by militants, with no effort from the governor to address the situation,” Tinubu stated.
As part of the emergency measures, Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected lawmakers have been suspended for an initial period of six months. Retired naval officer Ibok-Ete Ibas has been appointed as administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.
Ajibola Basiru, the APC’s national secretary, lauded Tinubu’s decision, describing it as a necessary step to restore peace and order in Rivers State.
“It is a welcome and positive decision by President Tinubu to restore order to Rivers, which was fast becoming a failed state,” Basiru said.
He criticized both the executive and legislative arms of the Rivers State government for failing to uphold their constitutional duties to ensure the welfare and security of the people.
Basiru also issued a stern warning to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, urging him to allow court-reinstated local council officials to resume their duties or risk a similar emergency declaration in Osun.
“Governor Adeleke should take note and allow the court-reinstated local council elected officials to function, or he may face a similar emergency declaration in Osun,” Basiru cautioned.
President Tinubu has directed security agencies to prioritize the protection of lives, property, and critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines, across Rivers State.
However, the emergency declaration does not affect the state’s judiciary, which will continue to operate within its constitutional mandate.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State underscores the federal government’s commitment to addressing security challenges and restoring stability in the region. As the APC backs Tinubu’s decision, all eyes are now on Osun State, where Governor Adeleke has been warned to avoid a similar fate.
(NAN)