Emergency Declaration in Rivers State: A Call for Support from Northern Representatives

In a decisive move, the Northern Caucus of the House of Representatives has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The Caucus has described the decision as both timely and constitutionally valid, emphasizing the need to combat rising threats to national stability and economic integrity.

Legislative Support for Strong Action

At a press conference held on Thursday, Ado Doguwa, the Chairman of the Northern Caucus, outlined the reasons behind their endorsement of the emergency declaration. The group voiced serious concerns over the ongoing destruction of vital national infrastructure, particularly in the oil and gas sector, attributing these acts to miscreants and politically motivated individuals.

Doguwa emphasized that it is crucial for the federal government to step in when law and order break down. “We cannot just sit back while thugs and hoodlums wreak havoc on the nation’s assets,” he stated. The Caucus believes that the sensitivity of the situation required immediate federal intervention to safeguard not only the state of Rivers but also the broader Nigerian economy.

The representatives reiterated that the actions taken by President Tinubu align with the powers granted to him under Section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which allows for the declaration of a state of emergency in response to crises threatening public safety and order. “The steps taken by Mr. President are not just appropriate; they are necessary to uphold the rule of law and protect our country’s interests,” Doguwa added.

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Accusations Against Local Leaders

Stepping beyond support for the President, the Northern Caucus did not shy away from holding local political figures accountable. They specifically named the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara, as part of an alleged conspiracy leading to the disruption of essential services. Through their statements, the Caucus suggested that Fubara, along with external stakeholders, were complicit in the sabotage of the state’s critical infrastructure.

The increasing unrest has raised alarm bells among national leaders, and the Caucus feels it is imperative for all political parties to rise above partisan lines. They urged the coalition of opposition leaders to recognize the gravity of the situation and the need for a collective approach in addressing it. Doguwa warned that “Nigeria is indeed greater than any selfish coalition and its conspiracies,” stressing the importance of national unity in the face of crises.

The Northern Caucus aimed to remind local leaders of their responsibilities towards maintaining peace and order. In the statement, they affirmed their commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the emergency measures. “We, as a legislative institution, will not allow Mr. President’s constitutional declaration of emergency to fail. We stand firm to support any efforts made in this regard,” Doguwa proclaimed.

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The Bigger Picture: A Call for Unity

In the backdrop of these events, there is a growing recognition that the challenges facing Rivers State are reflective of broader issues within Nigeria. The destruction of infrastructure impacts not just local communities, but the entire country’s economic health. Oil and gas significantly contribute to Nigeria’s GDP, and any threats to this sector could have widespread repercussions.

The Northern Reps Caucus believes that addressing the crisis in Rivers State is not merely a regional concern; it is a matter of national importance. As the events unfold, they are advocating for an approach that emphasizes law, order, and respect for constitutional processes.

In an age where political turmoil seems rampant, the Caucus’s statements serve as a reminder that governance must prioritize the safety and prosperity of the nation. They believe that with solidarity and mutual respect for the laws that bind the nation, a brighter future for Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole can be achieved.

As the debate over the state of emergency continues, all eyes will be on the actions of both the government and opposition leaders to ensure that justice, equity, and good governance prevail.