Gladness Gideon
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently meeting with the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The first-class monarch is accompanied by a delegation of royal fathers, believed to be members of the Obi-in-Council.
The high-profile meeting comes at a time of heightened political tension in the South-South region, following President Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The President’s directive saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the entire state House of Assembly members for an initial six-month period.
Additionally, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, was appointed as the state’s sole administrator.
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While the details of the meeting remain undisclosed, political analysts speculate that the discussions may touch on the current security situation in the region and possible steps to stabilize the political climate.
The visit of the Asagba of Asaba, who was crowned as the 14th Obi on August 26, 2024, is seen as a significant move, given his influence in the South-South geopolitical zone.
As tensions continue to simmer, the outcome of this meeting could play a role in shaping the next phase of dialogue between the federal government and traditional institutions in the region.