President Tinubu Defends Emergency Rule in Rivers, Citing Security and Infrastructure Protection

President Tinubu Defends Emergency Rule in Rivers, Citing Security and Infrastructure Protection

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the necessity of declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that the escalating crisis posed severe risks to vital oil and gas infrastructure and threatened the national economy……READ MORE

Speaking on Thursday, Tinubu highlighted that the prolonged instability in Rivers had undermined the progress made by his administration’s economic reforms since May 2023. He commended the National Assembly for endorsing the emergency proclamation, acknowledging its role in prioritizing the security and well-being of Rivers residents over political considerations.

“The crisis in Rivers State reached a dangerous tipping point, endangering critical national assets and economic stability,” Tinubu stated. “The near-total collapse of governance and the looming threat of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency intervention is essential to protecting lives, securing key infrastructure, and restoring democratic governance.”

The President expressed confidence that the six-month emergency rule would empower the newly appointed Sole Administrator to stabilize the state, address institutional breakdowns, and foster reconciliation among warring factions.

Reaffirming his commitment to collaboration with the National Assembly, Tinubu emphasized that decisive leadership and national unity were crucial in navigating the crisis. He called on all Nigerians to support efforts to restore peace in Rivers State, underscoring his administration’s broader mission of ensuring security, economic resilience, and equitable development across the country.