Wike: Tinubu’s State of Emergency Saved Fubara from Impeachment, Prevented Rivers’ Collapse

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State prevented Governor Siminalayi Fubara from being impeached and averted a potential crisis in the state.

President Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly following months of political turmoil. He also appointed retired Air Marshal Ibas Ibok-Ete as the sole administrator of the state.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike acknowledged that while he had initially wanted Fubara removed outright, Tinubu’s intervention was necessary to maintain peace.

“As a politician, I’m not pleased with the emergency declaration, but it was the right decision to stop anarchy,” Wike said. “The governor was already on his way out, but the president’s action saved Rivers State from disaster. People should be thanking him daily for this move.”

The crisis in Rivers State escalated after the Supreme Court, in February, ordered the Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly to resume legislative duties. The court also directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt funds to the state government due to alleged disregard for court orders and dismissed Fubara’s challenge against the legitimacy of the Assembly.

Following prolonged disputes between the governor and lawmakers over budget re-presentation and impeachment threats, Tinubu intervened, suspending Fubara and the Assembly for six months on security grounds. He then declared a state of emergency and installed a sole administrator.

Wike praised the president’s decision, saying, “Tinubu stepped in at the right time to save Rivers from chaos and calamity.”