A member of the House of Representatives, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, has thrown his weight behind the Federal Government’s decision to declare emergency rule in Rivers State, describing it as a crucial step toward restoring order in the midst of a deepening political crisis.
The lawmaker, who represents Ogbomoso North, South, and Orire Federal Constituency, made the statement in a press release issued from Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday. According to Alao-Akala, the escalating tensions and political unrest in Rivers State have reached a critical point, requiring immediate intervention to prevent further deterioration.
“The situation in Rivers has become untenable, with rising tensions between major political figures threatening to spiral out of control,” Alao-Akala stated. “Given the current state of affairs, the declaration of emergency rule is necessary to restore sanity and protect the interests of the people.”
The lawmaker emphasized that while emergency rule is not a long-term fix, it is essential in the short term to safeguard public peace and prevent the breakdown of law and order. Alao-Akala, who also chairs the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, pointed out that the move was not made lightly and was only taken after other options had been exhausted.
“Democracy thrives on peace and stability, and when internal political struggles threaten that balance, it is the responsibility of the government to intervene,” he said. “Rivers State’s citizens deserve to live in an environment where their safety and well-being are prioritized, and if emergency rule is the path to that, then it is justified.”
Alao-Akala further expressed support for the Federal Government’s decision, which saw President Bola Tinubu declare a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday. As part of the emergency measures, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months. In their place, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) was appointed as the Sole Administrator of the state.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions, but Alao-Akala stands firm in his belief that the government’s swift action is the best solution to avert further political chaos in the region.
