The Federal Government has firmly placed the blame for the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, accusing him of fueling violence and failing to act against militants responsible for destroying key oil pipelines.
Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi stated that Fubara’s inflammatory rhetoric and failure to disown the militants directly contributed to the escalating unrest in the state. Fagbemi argued that President Tinubu’s decision to invoke a state of emergency was a necessary step to prevent further collapse of governance and protect the country’s vital infrastructure.
In his defense, Fubara denied any wrongdoing, blaming the Rivers State House of Assembly for hindering efforts to restore peace and stability. The governor maintained that his administration had consistently adhered to the rule of law and prioritized the well-being of the people.
The declaration came after a series of violent explosions at crucial oil pipelines, and President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (Rtd.) as the new sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs. This marks a decisive move to address the security and political challenges facing the oil-rich region.
