The political crisis in Rivers State, Nigeria, has ignited a nationwide debate, drawing reactions from various political entities and figures. The declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu, leading to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the House of Assembly, has been met with both support and condemnation, revealing deep divisions in the country's political landscape.

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has voiced strong disapproval of President Tinubu's actions, asserting that the situation in Rivers State does not warrant a state of emergency. Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, the spokesperson for NEF, urged the President to immediately reinstate the governor and his deputy. The NEF argued that none of the conditions stipulated in Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), such as war, imminent invasion, breakdown of public order, or natural disaster, were present in Rivers State. They suggested that personal vendettas and selfish interests were the driving forces behind the suspension, rather than public good. The NEF also cautioned the Federal Government against allowing political disputes to escalate in other states, such as Kano.

Conversely, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who chairs the Progressive Governors’ Forum, has expressed his support for President Tinubu's decision. He described the declaration of a state of emergency as a proactive measure necessary to prevent a looming crisis that could destabilize the state and Nigeria's economy. Uzodimma emphasized the economic importance of Rivers State, particularly in crude oil production, and cited reports of pipeline bombings and explosions as justification for the President's intervention. He commended the National Assembly for supporting President Tinubu's decision and expressed confidence in the Federal Executive Council's ability to oversee the situation effectively.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has strongly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency, calling it unconstitutional. In his biweekly newsletter, Makinde urged Nigerians to oppose any action that threatens the nation's democratic growth and emphasized the need to uphold democratic principles. He revealed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum had resolved to challenge the President’s decision in court, stating, “We cannot fold our hands and watch the democracy we have built for almost three decades be trampled upon.”

Adding another layer to the controversy, the Cross River State Government has distanced itself from the South-South Governors’ Forum's rejection of the emergency rule. Acting Governor Peter Odey stated that Cross River aligns itself with President Tinubu’s quest to bring peace and stability to Rivers State. He emphasized that every responsible government must prioritize the protection of lives and property and support decisive action when necessary. Similarly, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State disassociated himself from the forum’s rejection, stating that President Tinubu understands the issues at stake and that he supports actions taken to bring lasting solutions and peace to Rivers State.

The National Assembly has approved President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The Senate recommended that the National Assembly should have oversight over the activities of the sole administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, and suggested the establishment of a peace committee to mediate between the parties in the Rivers crisis.

Senator Ali Ndume of Borno State has called for calm and urged Nigerians to trust the democratic institutions in the country. He emphasized the importance of remaining steadfast in the commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

The National Democratic Coalition (NADECA), an alliance of over 100 pro-democracy organizations across Africa, has praised Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for securing the National Assembly’s approval of the state of emergency. NADECA described the move as a critical step toward restoring stability and governance in Rivers State and accused critics of politicizing the situation.

In other news, the Nigerian government has announced plans to release N400 billion under the gas infrastructure fund to beneficiaries of the initiative. The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, disclosed this during the groundbreaking event of a CNG Mother Station plant in Akwa Ibom State. The fund aims to improve gas distribution and utilization, reduce flaring, and drive the adoption of CNG and LPG.

Amidst the political turmoil, the focus remains on restoring peace and stability to Rivers State and ensuring that governance benefits all residents.