The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has voiced his dissatisfaction with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. Speaking during a media parley in Abuja, Wike revealed that he had advocated for the outright removal of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, rather than the imposition of emergency rule.
"As a politician, I am not happy with the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State," Wike stated. "I wanted the outright removal of Governor Fubara. However, for the interest of the state, the president did what he believed was necessary to prevent anarchy."
The declaration, made on March 18, 2025, suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired) as the sole administrator to oversee the state's affairs. The decision followed escalating political tensions and security concerns in Rivers State, including sabotage of petroleum infrastructure and threats of violence.
While Wike acknowledged the president's efforts to stabilize the state, he maintained that the governor's position had become untenable prior to the intervention. "The governor was gone. He was gone, yes… so when people say the president did this, I say they should be praising him," Wike remarked.
The declaration of emergency rule has sparked mixed reactions nationwide. Supporters argue that it was a necessary step to restore order, while critics have labeled it a violation of democratic norms. Wike's comments add a new dimension to the ongoing debate, highlighting the complexities of governance and political dynamics in Rivers State.