Amidst growing political tensions in Rivers State, Niger Delta activist Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe has voiced strong opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s intervention, alleging that it is a calculated effort to stifle political opposition.
During an interview on Arise TV on Thursday, March 20, 2025, Sara-Igbe condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, arguing that the president has no legal grounds to enforce such a measure. He also criticized the administration for shielding Minister Nyesom Wike, whom he accused of fueling instability in the Niger Delta and beyond.
The activist labeled the president’s actions as unconstitutional, asserting that the decision to suspend Fubara was a deliberate strategy to weaken opposition forces. He questioned why Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which was invoked to justify Fubara’s suspension, was not applied in northern states grappling with widespread insecurity caused by terrorism and banditry.
“There is no war, no violent uprising in Rivers State, yet a state of emergency was declared,” Sara-Igbe remarked. “An elected governor and the House of Assembly were both suspended in a move that raises legal and ethical concerns. This decision is highly irregular and devoid of constitutional backing.”
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Additionally, he accused President Tinubu of using strong-arm tactics to subdue political adversaries, with Wike serving as a key enforcer of this agenda. Reflecting on a recent meeting between Niger Delta leaders and the president, Sara-Igbe alleged that Tinubu unfairly placed the blame solely on Governor Fubara while exonerating his minister.
The activist’s remarks add to the ongoing debate over political governance in Rivers State, raising questions about the broader implications of presidential influence in state affairs and the future of democratic principles in Nigeria.
