Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s swift action in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a critical move to protect Nigeria’s economy and security. In a statement on Friday from Lokoja, Karimi emphasized that suspending key political figures in the two factions of the crisis was the right decision to diffuse rising tensions and prevent further chaos.
Karimi explained that the President’s intervention was necessary as the security situation in Rivers had deteriorated, with incidents such as pipeline bombings intensifying the unrest. He pointed out that no responsible leader would allow the situation to spiral out of control, especially with growing threats to both the state and the national economy.
He highlighted the “fatherly role” President Tinubu had played since 2023, trying to mediate between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. However, despite efforts, peace talks failed, and tensions continued to escalate. Karimi recalled a 2023 truce meeting at Aso Rock Villa, where an eight-point settlement was agreed upon, but the situation worsened with the demolition of the House of Assembly and the governor’s control over just three legislators.
With the Supreme Court’s recent ruling giving more power to Wike’s camp and setting the stage for a potential impeachment of the governor, Karimi warned that the country could face more violence, destruction, and economic loss if the situation continued. He argued that Tinubu’s prompt action was necessary to prevent Rivers from descending into further chaos, especially with bombings already taking place.
Karimi also underscored that Nigeria’s economy had shown signs of recovery, and the government had worked tirelessly to raise crude oil production. Allowing the crisis in Rivers to escalate would have only jeopardized the country’s progress, he said.
The senator further clarified that the emergency declarations in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states under former President Goodluck Jonathan were based on security concerns stemming from insurgency, unlike the political crisis in Rivers. He commended President Tinubu’s timely and lawful intervention, arguing it was the best option to restore peace and stability in the state.
Finally, Karimi reassured Nigerians that there was no cause for alarm, as the National Assembly would review the emergency rule once conditions in Rivers improved.
