Rivers: ‘It’s About Resource Control’ – Reactions Trail Fubara’s Suspension, State of Emergency

Nigerians react to Governor Fubara’s suspension and the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers, with many linking it to resource control.

Former House of Representatives member Ogbonna Nwuke has attributed the ongoing political turmoil between Rivers State Governor Sininalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to issues surrounding resource control.

Nwuke expressed his views as a guest on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Wednesday.

He characterized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Fubara and impose a state of emergency as “shocking.”

Nwuke stated, “The situation in Rivers State has escalated into a conflict over resources between the current governor and the former governor, who now serves as the FCT minister.

“The conflict was ignited when lawmakers loyal to the minister attempted to impeach the governor. Although that attempt failed, peace has remained elusive in Rivers. The people of Rivers are understandably taken aback by the president’s declaration of a state of emergency, which reflects a biased perspective on the events that have unfolded in the state.

“There have been widespread calls for the president to rein in his minister, yet he has chosen to disregard public sentiment regarding Rivers State and the nation as a whole. It appears that this action was premeditated, suggesting they were either planning to impeach Governor Fubara or declare a state of emergency.

“The announcement of a state of emergency in Rivers State is indeed shocking,” he remarked.

Nwuke contended that while the president cited section 305 of the constitution to justify his decision, proper procedures were overlooked.

“Everyone is aware that there are established processes for declaring a state of emergency. However, in this instance, it seems that many residents of Rivers are still trying to comprehend the rationale behind the president’s actions,” he added.

On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the ongoing political crisis, announcing the suspension of Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly for six months during a nationwide broadcast.