Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State amid ongoing political turmoil.
The decision comes after months of escalating crisis in the state, prompting the president to intervene. Reacting to the development on his verified Facebook page, Fani-Kayode commended Tinubu’s decisive action, stating: “When children refuse to stop fighting, the father must step in lest they burn the house down.” He described the move as a necessary step to restore order and ensure peace among the warring political factions.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu announced the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all 27 elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. The president emphasized that the decision was made in the best interest of the state’s residents.
To oversee the state’s administration during this period, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state’s Administrator. Ibas is expected to restore stability and manage governance effectively during the interim.
The declaration marks a significant intervention by the federal government in the political affairs of Rivers State, as efforts continue to resolve the lingering crisis.