Abuja – Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as an “assault on democracy” and an act of “political manipulation carried out in bad faith.”
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, Abubakar accused President Bola Tinubu of having a vested interest in the political crisis rocking the state. He argued that the declaration was not in the best interest of the people but rather a tool to advance personal political agendas.
Abubakar expressed dismay over the federal government’s failure to prevent the escalation of tensions in Rivers State, despite clear warning signs. He criticized President Tinubu for not taking decisive action to end the destruction of national infrastructure in the state, which has further exacerbated the crisis.
The former Vice-President also lamented that the Niger Delta region, which had enjoyed relative peace following the amnesty program initiated by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua, has now been plunged back into an era of violent unrest and instability.
“Years of progress have been recklessly erased in pursuit of selfish political calculations,” Abubakar stated. “Punishing the people of Rivers State just to serve the political gamesmanship between the governor and Tinubu’s enablers in the federal government is nothing less than an assault on democracy and must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
Abubakar called on all stakeholders to prioritize the welfare of the people and work towards restoring peace and stability in the region. He urged the federal government to adopt a more transparent and inclusive approach to resolving the crisis, rather than resorting to measures that undermine democratic principles.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning its timing and motives. As the situation unfolds, residents and political observers alike are calling for a resolution that prioritizes the interests of the people over political maneuvering.