State of Emergency Declared in Rivers State Amid Political and Security Crisis
President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara and local legislators due to an explosion disrupting oil production. Critics argue the move is politically motivated as it targets the opposition PDP. The Nigerian Bar Association and the PDP have condemned Tinubu’s actions as unconstitutional.
On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara and local legislators for six months. Former navy chief Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas has been appointed as the caretaker governor. This declaration also grants the federal government authority to impose regulations and deploy security forces to restore order in the region.
The move was prompted by an explosion that affected the Trans-Niger Pipeline this week, which caused a $14 million disruption in daily crude oil production. The incident is under investigation, and President Tinubu has accused Governor Fubara of inaction against gangs responsible for similar incidents contributing to oil theft, known as “bunkering.”
Critics contend that President Tinubu’s intentions may be politically motivated, aiming to exert control over the oil-rich state, particularly since Fubara is affiliated with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the primary opposition to Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC). The governor is already involved in a power struggle with his predecessor, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, amid impeachment threats from political opponents.
The Nigerian Bar Association has labelled Tinubu’s actions as unconstitutional, and the PDP refuses to accept the legitimacy of the state of emergency. The party maintains that Fubara remains the legitimate governor and has urged the National Assembly to intervene and reverse the president’s decision.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State follows a significant oil production disruption. While framed as a necessary measure for security and governance, it raises concerns about political motivations and the legality of suspending a sitting governor. The criticisms from both the Nigerian Bar Association and the PDP emphasize the contentious political landscape and the implications of this decision for democracy in Nigeria.
Original Source: www.gzeromedia.com
