The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has faulted President Bola Tinubu over his handling of the political crisis in the state, accusing him of neglecting its residents until their votes are needed.
The party’s criticism comes ahead of Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Rivers State on Saturday, November 7, 2026, as part of activities for his re-election campaign.
In a statement released on Friday by its Publicity Secretary, Chizy Enyi, the ADC alleged that the President had failed to demonstrate commitment to the development of the state since taking office more than three years ago.
Enyi said Tinubu had yet to visit Rivers State to commission a federal project or address pressing concerns affecting residents, including deteriorating federal roads, sea piracy, insecurity, rising living costs, environmental degradation and oil spillage.
The opposition party also described the six-month emergency rule imposed on Rivers State during the political crisis as the most significant action the President had taken in the state.
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It is regrettable to note that the only benefit from President Tinubu’s government to Rivers State was a DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR SIX (6) months against Rivers people just to favour his crony, NYESOM WIKE,” the statement read.
The ADC further accused Tinubu of presenting Rivers State to the international community as a troubled region, arguing that the declaration of emergency rule was unjustified.
It maintained that the President’s planned visit had little to do with the welfare of residents, alleging that his interest was driven by the 2027 general election and his bid for another term in office.
“The only reason he now remembers Rivers State exists is that 2027 is around the corner and he needs our votes to campaign.
“This is unacceptable and an insult to the intelligence of Rivers people. Rivers State is the economic heartbeat of this nation, contributing a huge chunk to the national treasury, yet we have been abandoned with no presidential presence, no federal impact, and no renewed hope felt in Port Harcourt, Ahoada, Bonny, Bori, or Emohua, etc.
“You cannot abandon a people for three years and only remember them when you need their votes. Rivers people are politically aware. We know those who stand with us and those who only come when they need us,” Enyi added.