In a strong rebuke of President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, former Vice President and presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has accused the president of being a “vested partisan actor” in the ongoing political turmoil in the region. Atiku’s criticism sheds light on the growing political tensions surrounding the state of emergency, as many view it as a move deeply tied to partisan interests rather than a purely security-driven decision. In this article, we will explore Atiku’s statement, the implications of the state of emergency, and the political dynamics that are fueling this controversy.
What Is the State of Emergency in Rivers State?
A state of emergency is an extraordinary measure taken by the government when the normal functioning of the law and order system is threatened by widespread unrest or instability. In such a scenario, the government is granted special powers to restore order, often through military or security force intervention, curbing certain freedoms to maintain peace.
President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State was prompted by increasing violence and instability in the region. In recent years, Rivers State has experienced a surge in political conflicts, militant activities, and clashes between armed groups, all contributing to growing insecurity. This move was intended to swiftly address the escalating violence and restore law and order to the state.
Atiku’s Criticism: “A Vested Partisan Actor”
Atiku Abubakar, a key political figure and the flagbearer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 presidential election, has sharply criticized the president’s action. In a statement following the declaration, Atiku accused Tinubu of using the state of emergency to further his own political agenda, rather than genuinely addressing the security concerns in Rivers State. Atiku’s comments suggest that the president’s decision is politically motivated, aiming to weaken opposition forces in the state, especially in the lead-up to future elections.
Atiku, who has a long-standing political rivalry with Tinubu, specifically mentioned the role of Rivers State in Nigeria’s broader political landscape. The state, under the leadership of former Governor Nyesom Wike, has been a key battleground for political influence. Critics argue that Tinubu’s move to declare a state of emergency in Rivers is an attempt to assert control over the region and neutralize political opponents ahead of future elections.
Political Turmoil in Rivers State
Rivers State has long been a politically charged region, with intense rivalry between different political factions. Under Governor Nyesom Wike, the state became a stronghold of the opposition, especially in relation to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Wike’s influence, combined with the state’s strategic importance in Nigerian politics, has made Rivers a central focus in the country’s power struggles.
With the 2023 presidential elections and state elections in the rearview mirror, the political atmosphere in Rivers has remained volatile. The state has witnessed violence linked to political competition, and the declaration of a state of emergency is seen by many as part of the power play between the ruling APC and the opposition. Critics, including Atiku, argue that Tinubu is attempting to manipulate the situation for his party’s benefit, which undermines the true intent of the state of emergency.
Why Atiku’s Comments Matter
Atiku’s statement is significant because it highlights the deepening divide between Nigeria’s political elites, particularly between the ruling APC and the opposition PDP. As a former presidential candidate, Atiku’s perspective carries weight, and his words resonate with many Nigerians who believe that the state of emergency is more about political control than addressing the real security issues in Rivers State.
Atiku’s remarks also come at a time when many Nigerians are questioning the president’s handling of the nation’s security challenges. The declaration of a state of emergency is seen by some as a heavy-handed approach that may not solve the root causes of violence in the region. Instead, it could fuel further political divisions and unrest, as seen in the responses from opposition parties.
Supporters of Tinubu’s Decision
While Atiku’s criticism reflects the concerns of the opposition, there are those who support Tinubu’s decision, arguing that the state of emergency is necessary to curb the rising violence in Rivers State. Supporters believe that the president had no choice but to intervene to prevent further chaos and protect innocent lives. They argue that the declaration is not politically motivated but rather a response to the deteriorating security situation in the region.
Tinubu’s administration has also emphasized that the state of emergency is a temporary measure aimed at restoring peace. The federal government’s focus is on ensuring that stability returns to Rivers State so that development can resume and the people can live without fear of violence.
A Growing Political Divide
Atiku’s criticism of Tinubu further underscores the political divisions in Nigeria. The rivalry between the two men has been a longstanding feature of Nigerian politics, with each having a distinct vision for the country. Atiku’s party, the PDP, has struggled to regain political influence since the 2015 election, and his remarks reflect frustration over what is perceived as the government’s manipulation of power in favor of the APC.
The growing political divide between the APC and the PDP, especially over issues like the state of emergency in Rivers, raises important questions about governance and the future of democracy in Nigeria. Some Nigerians fear that the political elite’s constant infighting will only detract from the real issues facing the country, such as poverty, unemployment, and insecurity.
What’s Next for Rivers State?
With the state of emergency in place, all eyes are now on how the situation in Rivers State will unfold. Will the president’s intervention lead to lasting peace, or will it fuel further political division? If the state of emergency is lifted without addressing the underlying causes of unrest, there is a risk that the situation could return to its previous state of instability.
For now, the people of Rivers State must endure the consequences of the state of emergency, while the political battle between the APC and PDP continues. What is clear is that Nigeria’s political landscape remains deeply divided, with each side accusing the other of putting personal and party interests ahead of the common good.
A Divisive Action
Atiku’s harsh criticism of President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State reflects the political tensions that continue to plague Nigeria. While some see the president’s move as necessary to restore order, others believe it is an attempt to weaken political opposition and extend the ruling party’s influence. As the situation unfolds, it will be important to watch how the government balances security concerns with political considerations and whether the declaration leads to lasting stability in Rivers State or further divides the nation.
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Written By Fortune Davidson