Rivers State Elders and Leaders Forum, along with Concerned Civil Society Organisations, have condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
They described the move as unconstitutional, undemocratic, and uncivilized.
The groups criticized the President’s portrayal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara as uncooperative in conflict resolution efforts and absolving Minister Nyesom Wike of blame.
They argued that the reasons given for the state of emergency were inconsistent with Section 305(3) of the Constitution.
The elders, led by former Governor Rufus Ada-George, expressed disappointment with the President’s claim that there was no functional government in the state.
They noted that Governor Fubara had made efforts to implement political and judicial verdicts for peace and was in communication with lawmakers for budget presentation.
The groups also questioned why Governor Fubara and lawmakers were singled out for disciplinary action while Minister Wike was not held accountable for his inflammatory statements.
The Concerned Civil Society Organisations alleged that the President acted in bad faith, backing Minister Wike’s use of the Amaewhule-led assembly to frustrate Governor Fubara’s efforts.
They praised Rivers people for not taking the law into their own hands and promised to seek legal redress for the suspension of Governor Fubara and others.