Amid growing concerns over the political crisis in Rivers State and the subsequent declaration of a state of emergency, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has explained its decision to remain neutral in the unfolding situation.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director General of the NGF, Abdulateef Shittu, clarified that the forum, which brings together all 36 state governors, prioritizes collective governance over partisan conflicts. He emphasized that the NGF’s core mandate is to advocate for unified policy positions and advance socioeconomic development rather than engage in politically divisive matters.
Responding to widespread media inquiries regarding its perceived silence, the NGF secretariat maintained that stepping into politically sensitive disputes contradicts its foundational principles. “Our stance is informed by past experiences, where political differences once caused significant divisions within the Forum,” the statement noted.
While the NGF has historically been vocal on pressing national matters such as taxation, healthcare, education, and wage structures, it underscored that its primary focus remains governance rather than political rivalries. The statement urged the media and the general public to recognize the existence of established mechanisms designed to resolve political disagreements.
The crisis in Rivers State reached a critical point on Tuesday when President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency, citing prolonged political instability that threatened governance and security in the region. As part of the directive, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas has since been appointed as the state’s interim Administrator to oversee governmental functions.
In addressing concerns about governance continuity, President Tinubu reassured citizens that the judiciary in Rivers State would remain autonomous. He further emphasized that the role of the Administrator is to restore stability and ensure governance operates in the best interest of the people.
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However, some political analysts have questioned the justification for suspending an elected governor over a political crisis, arguing that such actions could set a concerning precedent. They have raised concerns about the constitutional implications, asking what is so sensitive about upholding the Nigerian Constitution that an elected leader would be removed, while more pressing electoral injustices remain unaddressed. Analysts contend that rather than avoiding the issue, there should be greater emphasis on safeguarding democratic principles and ensuring fairness in governance.
As the situation in Rivers State continues to unfold, political observers and stakeholders remain watchful of the implications of these developments on governance, security, and democratic stability in the region.
