Web Manager
Political leaders from the South-South region, including governors, are working to reconcile the warring factions in Rivers State following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule. Multiple sources from the Presidency revealed that the measure is intended to de-escalate tensions and allow for peace talks between the feuding parties.
On March 18, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a breakdown of governance due to the conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state’s lawmakers, along with attacks on oil facilities.
As part of the emergency declaration:
- Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the House of Assembly members were suspended.
- Ibok-Ette Ibas, a retired Chief of Naval Staff, was sworn in as the state’s sole administrator.
The President invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to justify the decision. However, critics argue that the move is unnecessary and may push the nation toward authoritarianism.
Reconciliation Efforts Underway
Presidency sources emphasized that the emergency rule is a temporary measure to allow both sides to cool off and engage in peaceful dialogue.
“The essence of the emergency rule is to give the parties time to cool down and resolve their issues,” a Presidency official told The PUNCH.
Efforts by South-South governors, Senators, and other stakeholders are reportedly focused on mediating the conflict. A mediation panel, as requested by the National Assembly, may soon be established to facilitate dialogue.
A source added, “Even the sole administrator’s role includes reconciling the parties and stabilizing the state.”
House of Representatives to Announce Special Committee
The House of Representatives is expected to constitute a committee to manage the affairs of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Deputy House Spokesman Philip Agbese confirmed that the House leadership is working toward restoring peace in the state and will soon make a public announcement.
The National Assembly previously approved Tinubu’s emergency proclamation but objected to the provision requiring the sole administrator to report directly to the Federal Executive Council. Lawmakers argue that Section 305 cannot be read in isolation from Section 11, which empowers the National Assembly to take over the functions of a State Assembly when it becomes dysfunctional.
Wike’s Position on the Crisis
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, through his aide Lere Olayinka, stated that he is not opposed to reconciliation efforts. However, he criticized Governor Fubara’s failure to implement the Supreme Court’s judgment immediately.
Wike, a key figure in Fubara’s emergence as governor, has been widely blamed for the political turmoil in the state. Olayinka defended Wike against allegations that he instigated the violence, saying:
“Was it Wike who demolished the House of Assembly? Was it Wike who directed youths to vandalize pipelines? People can talk, but whether their statements make sense is another issue.”
Governor Fubara Reappears Publicly
After days of uncertainty following his suspension, Governor Fubara made a public appearance on Sunday at Salvation Ministries in Port Harcourt.
Clad in all-white attire, Fubara was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, and several political leaders. His appearance eased concerns about his whereabouts following the emergency declaration.
A statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, described the church service as a time to express gratitude for divine support amid the political crisis.
Explosion Rocks Gas Pipeline in Rivers State
Amid the political unrest, an explosion occurred on a gas pipeline along the Soku-Abua-Rumuji Right of Way on Sunday morning.
The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC) reported that the explosion caused fireballs visible in the sky, but the cause remains unknown—whether due to equipment failure, sabotage, or deliberate attacks.
The Soku community denied reports that the explosion occurred at the Soku Gas Plant, clarifying that it was along the pipeline instead.
The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency has been urged to investigate the incident under the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.
Conclusion
As political tensions and security concerns heighten in Rivers State, both federal and regional leaders are working toward reconciliation. With the emergency rule in place and mediation efforts underway, the focus remains on restoring stability while addressing grievances on all sides.
