Gladness Gideon
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State has drawn praise from former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, who described the move as bold and necessary to end the state’s prolonged political crisis.
The declaration, announced in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all 27 elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
Fani-Kayode, in a statement on his verified Facebook page, commended Tinubu’s intervention, stating, “When children refuse to stop fighting, the father must step in.” He hailed the decision as a “bold and commendable move” that would restore stability and prevent further escalation of the crisis.
He further expressed confidence that the federal government’s intervention would compel all political actors in the state to act responsibly, preventing the situation from spiraling into widespread unrest.
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To oversee the state’s affairs during the emergency period, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator. The retired naval officer is expected to ensure effective governance and maintain law and order while the suspension remains in effect.
The declaration follows months of escalating tensions in Rivers, with political factions locked in bitter disputes, accusations of corruption, and violent confrontations. The federal government’s intervention signals a decisive effort to prevent further deterioration and restore constitutional order.
With the emergency measures in place for six months, the nation watches closely to see how this unprecedented move will shape the political future of Rivers State.