Tinubu’s decision on Rivers averted anarchy – Presidency justifies suspension of Fubara, Others

The Presidency has dismissed comments that the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other political figures was a power grab, insisting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took necessary action to prevent anarchy in the state.

In a statement released on Sunday, March 23, 2025, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, defended the decision, stressing that waiting for a total breakdown of governance before intervening would have been irresponsible.

According to the Presidency, the prolonged political crisis in Rivers, caused by a fierce power struggle between Governor Fubara and State House of Assembly members loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had crippled governance. Despite Supreme Court rulings upholding constitutional order, both factions remained defiant. Intelligence reports also indicated that militants in the creeks were planning to sabotage vital oil facilities, posing a serious economic threat to Nigeria.

“Imagine a Rivers State where President Tinubu hesitated. The political standoff could have escalated into violence, with lawmakers attacked and critical oil infrastructure at risk. Schools and hospitals would have closed, investors would have withdrawn, and the human and economic toll would have been severe,” the statement read.

By March 18, the situation had worsened beyond political mediation, making presidential intervention unavoidable.

While critics argue that suspending the governor and other political players undermines democracy, the Presidency insists it was a necessary step to restore order.

“This is no power grab,” the statement emphasized. “The intervention is temporary, strategic, and aimed at restoring, not replacing democratic institutions. The six-month suspension is meant to disarm warring factions and stabilize governance.”

The Presidency also accused some critics of hypocrisy, pointing out that they ignored Fubara’s refusal to cooperate with the legislature but were quick to condemn Tinubu’s action.

“Democracy cannot thrive in lawlessness, anarchy is its enemy,” Onanuga stated, citing Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers the President to act when law, order, and economic stability are at risk.

The statement further referenced past states of emergency in Plateau and Borno, as well as the doctrine of necessity, to justify Tinubu’s decision.

“The President took an oath to protect national stability, not stand by while partisan conflicts destroy democracy. Rivers is a key economic hub, and any disruption to its oil sector affects the entire country,” it added.

With Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.) appointed as Administrator of Rivers State, efforts to restore peace and normal governance have already begun.

His first steps included consultations with traditional rulers to seek lasting solutions.

The Presidency assured Nigerians that the state of emergency would be lifted once stability is restored, allowing elected officials to resume their roles.

Quoting 18th-century philosopher Edmund Burke, the statement concluded: “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”

It further stated: “President Tinubu chose courage over complacency. His action prioritized national interest over political considerations, preventing a deeper crisis.”

“To those calling him a ‘tyrant,’ ask yourselves, can democracy survive in chaos?”

“The calm in Rivers today proves the President made the right decision.”

“He deserves commendation, not criticism.”