State of Emergency: It is sad development – Political critic Igbini

Mr. Emmanuel Igbini, a political critic and former governorship candidate under the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has expressed his dismay over the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu due to ongoing crises in the region.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, Igbini described the declaration as “a sad development” and lamented the situation in the state.

“I am pained, so pained in my heart, that we are now at this stage in the governance of our dear Rivers State,” Igbini remarked.

He recounted his efforts to resolve the issue politically, even following the Supreme Court’s ruling, and revealed that he had reached out to Governor Similanayi Fubara and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike earlier on Tuesday.

Igbini noted that since a minor misunderstanding arose between the governor and the minister two years ago, he had remained committed to promoting peace and reconciliation between the two.

He emphasized his role as a fair and unbiased critic, condemning both parties when necessary and asserting that no dispute rooted in falsehood could ever be truly resolved.

In his message to Governor Fubara, Igbini urged him to urgently initiate talks with Wike for reconciliation.

Unfortunately, despite his best efforts, the situation deteriorated, leading to the state of emergency declaration.

Igbini expressed his belief that peace was still possible, as the bonds that had once united the governor and minister were too strong to be easily broken.

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While Igbini did not oppose the state of emergency, he regretted that it could have been avoided if both leaders had followed his advice. “It is very unfortunate, but we shall overcome,” he said.

In a related statement, a public servant working with an oil exploration company in Rivers State, who wished to remain anonymous, welcomed the President’s decision.

The individual believed that the state of emergency would help ease tensions in Port Harcourt, allowing residents to experience a moment of calm.

However, he urged the state administrator to ensure that the rights and freedoms of law-abiding citizens were respected in the administration of the state.

As the state of emergency continues, all eyes are on how the situation in Rivers will unfold, and whether reconciliation efforts will take root before further measures are necessary.