CSO commends Tinubu, n’assembly for emergency rule in Rivers

The National Democratic Coalition (NADECA), a civil society organisation, has commended President Bola Tinubu over his declaration emergency rule in Rivers state.

On Tuesday, Tinubu declared emergency rule in Rivers and also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the state assembly.

The president appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice admiral, as Rivers sole administrator to help restore stability in the state.

On Thursday, both chambers of the national assembly approved the president’s request for emergency rule in Rivers state.

In a statement on Thursday issued by Chukwuma Eze, the group’s president, said Tinubu acted in the “best interest” of democracy and national stability.

The group noted that the state of emergency was critical to reset the governance structure in Rivers and prevent a total breakdown of law and order.

“After a thorough and objective review of the crisis in Rivers State, we are convinced that President Tinubu acted in the best interest of democracy and national stability. The state of emergency was not only justified but essential to reset the governance structure in Rivers and prevent a total breakdown of law and order,” the statement reads.

The coalition also commended the national assembly for ratifying the move, adding that Godswill Akpabio, the senate president, and Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives, played a “crucial role in upholding constitutional order”.

The group condemned critics of the president’s decision, adding that without the move, the crisis in Rivers could have “escalated beyond control”.

They called on all stakeholders, political leaders and civil society groups, to support the President’s efforts to stabilise Rivers and ensure that governance is restored.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals and groups are deliberately twisting the narrative to suit their interests. The truth remains that Rivers State was on the brink of chaos, and it required urgent intervention,” the statement added.

“Those who claim to be defenders of democracy should ask themselves if democracy can thrive in an environment of lawlessness.

“Nigeria cannot afford to allow political crises to fester to the point where they threaten national security. The President has acted, the National Assembly has backed him, and now it is time for all well-meaning Nigerians to focus on ensuring that peace and development return to Rivers State.”