APC explains Tinubu’s emergency declaration in Rivers

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that it was necessary to restore constitutional governance and safeguard lives and property.

In a statement issued in Abuja, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka commended the National Assembly for swiftly approving Tinubu’s proclamation, highlighting their commitment to peace, security, and national unity. Morka particularly praised the opposition caucus for putting aside partisan interests to support the emergency declaration.

Morka noted that President Tinubu remains dedicated to maintaining peace, law and order, and protecting critical national assets in Rivers. The President’s goal is to reinstate effective constitutional governance, ensuring that the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary function harmoniously for the benefit of good governance.

The APC spokesman urged Nigerians to disregard opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai, whom he accused of politicizing the crisis for personal gain. According to Morka, these leaders failed to address the crisis, which posed significant threats to peace and national infrastructure in Rivers. He described their recent press conference as a publicity stunt designed to incite tension.

Morka called on Rivers residents and all Nigerians to support Tinubu’s efforts to restore peace and protect lives and property. He emphasized that the President’s ultimate objective is the return of effective constitutional governance in Rivers.

President Tinubu declared the state of emergency on Tuesday, citing prolonged political instability and disturbing security issues in Rivers, including pipeline vandalism by militants without state intervention. He has directed security agencies to protect lives, infrastructure, and oil pipelines throughout the state.

Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the Administrator to oversee Rivers’ affairs during the emergency period, while the state judiciary remains unaffected and continues its duties as per constitutional provisions.