President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State has been strongly criticised by the South-South Youths Initiative, a Niger Delta youth group, which described it as an unjust move that threatens democratic principles.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 18, the group’s National President, Imeabe Oscar, criticised the suspension of the state’s elected leadership while a sole administrator was appointed.
“Our main concern is that the President did not suspend the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, who is the main reason the political crisis remains unresolved,” Oscar stated.
He accused Tinubu of bias, arguing that the crisis stemmed from a political battle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike, yet only one party was punished.
“By refusing to mention Wike or suspend him alongside others, the President has shown clear bias. The political battle in Rivers State is between Governor Siminialayi Fubara and Wike, yet only one side has been penalised,” the statement read.
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The group urged Tinubu to suspend Wike to prove his impartiality and called on the National Assembly to reject the state of emergency, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent.
“We have prayed that nothing derails democracy in this country, no matter how imperfect it may be. It is surprising that the President would make a decision that contradicts the principles of the rule of law,” Oscar stated.
He questioned why emergency rule was imposed in Rivers while northern states plagued by banditry and insurgency remained untouched.
“If a state of emergency is necessary, why wasn’t it declared in northern states where bandits and insurgents have been terrorising communities?” the group asked.
Despite their grievances, the youth group urged Rivers residents to remain calm during this “trying time” in the state’s history.
Tinubu’s emergency rule in Rivers State has been subject to varying reactions with many waiting for what is next in such critical time in Nigeria’s history.