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Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, has backed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, stating that the move averted a looming crisis and potential bloodshed in the oil-rich state.
Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Nwuche emphasized that the prolonged political turmoil had crippled governance and driven investors away, making emergency intervention necessary.
“The President’s action has prevented Rivers from descending into lawlessness. The crisis had dragged on for over a year, pushing the state towards anarchy. Businesses were shutting down, and uncertainty clouded governance. The declaration has restored order,” he said.
He further warned that worsening insecurity, including threats to vital oil installations, posed a significant risk to national stability.
“A situation where criminals resort to blowing up pipelines is a dangerous trend. Threats of sabotage and attacks on critical national assets cannot be condoned,” Nwuche added.
The former lawmaker urged the National Assembly to swiftly ratify the emergency rule to restore governance and stability in Rivers State. He also called on political actors to use this period to peacefully resolve their disputes and de-escalate tensions.
“I call on the National Assembly to approve the emergency rule without delay so governance can return to normal. Political leaders should use this window to settle disputes within the ambit of the law and put the state’s interest first,” he said.
Dismissing claims that the crisis was fueled by ethnic divisions, Nwuche insisted that Rivers people had historically coexisted peacefully.
“Elections in Rivers were not won on ethnic lines. My people, the Ekpeye, alongside the Ikwerre, Ogoni, Kalabari, Igbani, and Etche, voted together. This crisis is being fueled by external forces for selfish gains,” he stated.
He urged residents to remain calm and support the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.), in ensuring peace and development in the state.
“The President’s decision was in the best interest of Rivers people. I urge all residents to support the new leadership and allow stability to return,” Nwuche said.
