“Tinubu Set to Declare State of Emergency in Rivers State as Crisis Reaches Boiling Point!”

President Bola Tinubu is reportedly preparing to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the rapidly worsening political crisis in the region. According to two sources from the presidency, the decision is expected to be announced soon, reflecting the federal government’s concern over the volatile situation.

The crisis primarily revolves around escalating tensions between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a former governor of the state. The friction intensified on Monday when the Rivers State House of Assembly issued an impeachment notice against Governor Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, accusing them of gross misconduct. This move has further deepened the rift within the state’s political landscape.

As part of the federal government’s response to the unfolding crisis, President Tinubu is reportedly considering appointing retired military chief Ekwe Ibas to oversee the state during the anticipated period of emergency rule. The potential decision to implement a state of emergency marks a significant escalation, underscoring the gravity of the situation in Rivers, a crucial hub for Nigeria’s oil industry.

The political crisis is compounded by incidents of violence and unrest across the state. Late on Monday night, an explosion occurred on the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, leading to a significant fire. While investigations are still ongoing, there are suspicions of possible sabotage. The incident has raised concerns about the impact on oil production and the broader stability of the region.

Public reaction to the impeachment proceedings has also fueled tensions. Protests erupted in various parts of the state as supporters of Governor Fubara expressed dissatisfaction with the Assembly’s actions. Demonstrators decried the impeachment attempt as politically motivated, further heightening the already charged atmosphere.

Amid these developments, President Tinubu convened a meeting with top security officials at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday. Those present included Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) Oluwatosin Ajayi. In addition, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu attended the meeting.

While the specifics of the discussions were not made public, it is widely believed that the meeting focused on the deteriorating security and political conditions in Rivers State. Analysts suggest that the federal government is weighing the potential consequences of a state of emergency, considering both the immediate need to stabilize the region and the potential backlash from political stakeholders within and outside the state.

The decision to impose a state of emergency could have significant implications for the state’s governance and its position in Nigeria’s oil industry. Rivers State is one of the country’s primary oil-producing regions, and any prolonged instability could disrupt operations, affecting the national economy. The possibility of federal intervention has already sparked debate among political observers, with some questioning the appropriateness of such a measure given the potential impact on democratic processes in the state.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on President Tinubu’s administration and its next steps in addressing the crisis. The president’s final decision could set a precedent for how the federal government responds to internal conflicts that threaten stability in Nigeria’s politically sensitive and economically vital regions.