Ex-lawmaker Robinson Uwak backs Tinubu’s emergency rule in Rivers

Former House of Representatives member Hon. Robinson Uwak has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which resulted in the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the state assembly for six months.  

The decision, announced in a national broadcast on Tuesday, was enacted under Section 305(5) of the Nigerian Constitution.

As part of the directive, retired naval chief Ibokette Ibas has been appointed as the state’s administrator.

Uwak defended the move as necessary to prevent escalating unrest in the state. He argued that Governor Fubara had failed to adequately respond to a recent gas pipeline explosion, adding that the growing security threats in the region required decisive federal intervention.

The president’s decision followed a statement from the Federal Executive Council, signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi. The statement cited escalating threats to law and order and risks to critical oil infrastructure in the oil-rich state

President Tinubu’s measures aim to prevent further loss of life and property, reflecting a shift towards proactive governance. Rivers State is vital to Nigeria’s economy, and the unrest poses risks to national security.

According to Uwak, this action sets a potential precedent for similar situations in other states, raising questions about the future of governance in Nigeria.

“No responsible president would fold his arms and allow things to deteriorate to the point of causing loss of life and property. The president acted proactively to address the situation, as contemporary governance should prioritise being proactive rather than reactive. What he did was to prevent further loss of lives and property,” Uwak added.