Presidency Hits Back at Atiku Over Criticism of State of Emergency in Rivers

Presidency Hits Back at Atiku Over Criticism of State of Emergency in Rivers

The presidency has responded to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s condemnation of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, urging him to separate emotions from logic.

Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 presidential candidate, had described Tinubu’s action as “disgraceful,” accusing him of enabling the crisis in Rivers State for political reasons.

“The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State reeks of political manipulation and outright bad faith,” Atiku stated. “Tinubu’s blatant refusal or calculated negligence in preventing this escalation is nothing short of disgraceful.”

However, Tinubu’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Olusegun Dada, dismissed Atiku’s remarks, stating that the President acted within his constitutional powers under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. Dada also reminded Atiku of past instances where he and his former principal, Olusegun Obasanjo, declared states of emergency in Ekiti and Plateau states.

“Alhaji, calm down. Mr. President acted within his powers, the same way you and your boss exercised yours in Ekiti and Plateau,” Dada wrote. “As an elder statesman, you should know when to separate emotions from logic.”

The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, announced on March 18, 2025, resulted in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.

The move has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders questioning its constitutionality and accusing Tinubu of political interference. Meanwhile, the National Assembly is set to review the President’s decision in the coming days.