By Nwafor Sunday
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep concern over the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, describing the crisis as “ordinarily avoidable.”
In a statement signed by its National Spokesman, Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Christopher Ominimini, PANDEF noted that it is closely monitoring the situation and will soon release its official position.
“For the past few months, Rivers State has been engulfed in political turmoil involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and 27 elected members of the State House of Assembly,” the statement read.
Earlier today, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Odu, and all 27 elected lawmakers for an initial period of six months.
“By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months,” the President stated.
To oversee the state’s affairs, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator, citing the need to restore stability and protect the interests of the people of Rivers State.
The decision has sparked widespread reactions, with various stakeholders voicing concerns over the implications of the emergency rule. PANDEF, a leading voice in the Niger Delta region, has pledged to assess the situation carefully before making further pronouncements.
As tensions persist, all eyes remain on the federal government and the affected political figures in Rivers State.
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