The Federal Government has issued a strong caution that it will not hesitate to impose intense sanctions including declaring a state of emergency in any state where national economic interests are endangered. This follows President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State —a move that sparked widespread criticism across the country.
Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi supported the move —asserting that no individual or state will receive preferential treatment. He stressed that the President acted to prevent disorder and protect national stability, adding that similar interventions could be applied to other states if necessary. The President also swore in Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.) as Sole Administrator of Rivers State, charging him with reviving peace and order.
However, prominent figures including former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, have criticized the action as unconstitutional and a threat to democracy. The Ijaw National Congress and other critics accused the President of planning a political power grab. Meanwhile, uncertainty intensifies as the National Assembly has yet to decide on the declaration while Rivers State remains calm but tense amid increased security presence and questions about Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s whereabouts.
