The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu has sparked varied reactions, particularly among Ijaw leaders who are now considering options for self-determination.
Ijaw National Congress (INC) President’s Response:
Prof. Benjamin Okaba, INC president, expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the Ijaw people view the declaration as “another slap on us.” He announced plans for a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss their position and explore options for self-determination. Okaba criticized the decision as hasty, arguing that President Tinubu should have intervened by calling Minister Nyesom Wike to order. He also alleged that Wike’s actions were aimed at seizing control of state power and resources.
Retired Delta Judge’s Perspective:
Miakpor Emiaso, a retired Delta State Customary Court president, deemed the emergency rule “inevitable, yet, unfortunate.” However, he criticized President Tinubu’s language for showing “subtle political bias,” noting the omission of references to the House of Assembly speaker and Wike’s influence. Emiaso suggested that Wike should be removed from his position to ensure fairness and prevent him from influencing the state administrator. He also argued that the six-month duration of the emergency rule was excessive.
Former Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) President’s Analysis:
Dr. Chris Ekyor, former IYC president, expressed shock and suggested that the president was acting under Wike’s influence. He questioned the legitimacy of the defection of 27 lawmakers and criticized the judiciary’s role in the crisis. Ekyor also condemned Wike’s actions and statements towards the Ijaw people. He drew comparisons to past situations where states of emergency were not declared, questioning the necessity of the current action.
Former Presidential Candidate’s Call for Resolution:
Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim urged a swift and peaceful resolution to the crisis, emphasizing that the people should not suffer from the power struggle. He expressed concern over the state of emergency, describing it as a departure from past political conflicts driven by ideology rather than personal rivalries. He called for President Tinubu to exercise statesmanship and wisdom, cautioning against the use of extreme measures that could destabilize the nation.
Hashim drew parallels to previous states of emergency, noting that the Rivers crisis is unique in being triggered by political infighting rather than widespread violence. He welcomed the House of Representatives’ stance on supervising the state administrator.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) also condemned the suspension of democratic institutions in Rivers State, with the NBA expressing concern over its constitutionality and the PDPGF denouncing it as an attack on federalism.
Hashim concluded by urging all parties to prioritize the people’s interests and focus on governance, warning of the potential consequences of prolonged instability.
