President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated the necessity of declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing threats to vital oil and gas installations and national economic stability.
In a statement on Thursday, the President emphasized that the prolonged political crisis in Rivers had severely impacted governance and posed significant security risks. He praised the National Assembly for approving the emergency proclamation, highlighting their role in prioritizing national interest over political differences.
“The crisis in Rivers State reached a perilous tipping point, endangering federal economic assets and undermining the progress of our administration’s reforms since May 2023,” Tinubu stated.
He acknowledged the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, along with other lawmakers, for their swift intervention. Their review of classified security reports underscored the urgent need for action, he said.
“As I detailed in my address to the nation on March 18, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” the President asserted.
Tinubu expressed confidence that the six-month emergency period would provide the newly appointed Sole Administrator with the mandate to stabilize the state, address systemic failures, and foster reconciliation among stakeholders.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to promote peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity and patriotism guide leadership actions. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” Tinubu stated.
The President called on all stakeholders to support the peace restoration efforts in Rivers State, urging Nigerians to remain united in the face of national challenges.
