Olusegun Ariyo
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday again justified his decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, saying the crisis was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations.
He also said the rivers crisis was undermining the national economy and the progress his administration has made in the reforms initiated since it commenced in May 2023.
The President lauded the National Assembly for the ratification of the state of emergency proclamation in Rivers State.
According Tinubu, the declaration of emergency rule is a critical step to restoring stability after a protracted political crisis that paralysed governance in the state and endangered national economic security for over 15 months.
He specifically commended the National Assembly’s leadership — Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and other principal officers and members – for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers State people above partisan interests and other considerations.
He further acknowledged the lawmakers’ diligent review of classified security briefings, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” Tinubu noted.
“As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability.”
The President said he was optimistic that the six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.
“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria — one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he said.
He lauded all Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State.
