The Cross River and Edo State governments have rejected the South-South Governors’ Forum’s opposition to the state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
Acting Governor of Cross River, Dr Peter Odey, said the state fully supports President Bola Tinubu’s decision, insisting it was necessary for peace and stability.
In a statement on Thursday, March 20, by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Ekpong, Odey made it clear that Cross River was not consulted before the forum took its position.
“The position of the forum does not reflect the views of the government of Cross River, which fully aligns with the decision of Mr President, taken in the best interest of national security, peace, and stability,” Odey said.
He stressed that every responsible government must prioritise security and order, adding that Cross River would continue working with the federal government to ensure peace nationwide.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State also distanced himself from the forum’s stance. In a statement by his spokesperson, Fred Itua, he clarified that he was neither consulted nor gave his approval.
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“President Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, understands the issues at stake,” the statement read.
“Okpebholo supports actions so far taken by President Tinubu that will bring lasting solutions and peace to Rivers State and the South-South geopolitical zone.”
On Thursday, the National Assembly approved the six-month emergency rule in Rivers, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and state lawmakers.
The Senate, which deliberated behind closed doors, endorsed Tinubu’s proclamation through a voice vote and recommended the creation of a mediation team of eminent Nigerians to engage the feuding factions.
The House of Representatives also gave its approval earlier on Thursday with a voice vote.