By Vivian Okejeme Abuja
A Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, Friday, commended President Bola Tinubu’s declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The group posited that Tinubu’s decision was guided by the provisions of Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the Coalition, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, said reflected a sober and constitutional response to a pressing political situation that demanded immediate intervention for the restoration of order, peace, and effective governance.
Dr Gabriel, who is the Director General, Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens, cited leadership failure on the part of Governor Siminalayi Fubara to handle the political crisis in Rivers State as part of the reasons that prompted the President to declare a state of emergency in the State.
“As a civil right coalition, we stand in affirming the recent actions taken by President Bola Tinubu, as well as the resolutions passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives concerning the state of emergency in Rivers State” Gabriel said.
“This provision allows for the declaration of a state of emergency in situations where the government is unable to maintain order or ensure good governance.
“The chaotic political environment in Rivers State necessitated such an extraordinary measure” Dr Gabriel posited.
“The current leadership in Rivers State, represented by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, has not made adequate attempts to address the deteriorating situation.
“Their failure to seek the assistance of the President as mandated in Section 305(5) indicates a lack of readiness and capability to govern effectively.
“It is the duty of the President to intervene when local leaders are unable or unwilling to fulfill their responsibilities to the people” Gabriel stated.
He contended that emergency rule in Rivers State became necessary to restore peace and security, as according to him, “the ongoing unrest and political instability in Rivers State pose significant risks to the safety and security of its citizens.
“A state of emergency provides an imperative framework to restore peace, address the sources of conflict, and create an environment conducive to effective governance, he added.
As champions of good governance, the Coalition believed that the declaration is an essential step towards restoring the rule of law, stability, and effective leadership in Rivers State.
“It is our collective responsibility to prioritize the welfare of the people of Rivers state above all political considerations.
“By standing together and supporting this urgent intervention, we can contribute to the restoration of peace and the establishment of a government that truly serves the interests of the citizens, he said.
The group hailed the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd), as Administrator for Rivers State, describing the action a strategic decision aimed at stabilizing the state’s affairs.
The Centre exuded confidence that Vice Admiral Ibas with his vast experience will help steer the state towards a path of recovery, focusing on law and order while upholding the principles of justice and governance.
Dr Gabriel equally commended the assurance that the judicial arm of the Rivers State government will continue to operate independently.
This he said, underscores the respect for the rule of law while allowing the necessary interventions in government.
“We fully support the Senate’s resolution to invoke Section 11 of Section 4 of the Nigerian Constitution, empowering the National Assembly to establish a Joint Advisory Committee to oversee the administration of Rivers State during this period.
“This oversight is crucial for ensuring that the interests of the citizens are maintained and that stability is restored.
“We also welcome the Senate’s suggestion to form a committee of eminent Nigerians tasked with reconciling the conflicting parties within the government of Rivers State.
“Such an initiative is essential not only for immediate resolution of the ongoing crisis but also for fostering a more collaborative and effective governance structure in the future.
“The House of Representatives’ affirmation of the state of emergency further reinforces the consensus on the need for urgent intervention.
“We believe that these measures are in the best interest of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole” Dr Gabriel stated. END.
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