Rasidi Ladoja Weighs In On Rivers State Emergency: A Path To Peace Or Political Chess?

Why Rasidi Ladoja Supports the State of Emergency in Rivers

Let me set the stage for you: In the world of Nigerian politics, where every move can spark a nationwide debate, former Oyo State governor Rasidi Ladoja has thrown his weight behind the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. And no, he’s not just doing it because it’s trendy. Speaking to journalists at his Bodija residence in Ibadan after observing Eid-el-Fitr, Ladoja made it crystal clear: this isn’t some power play threatening democracy—it’s a necessary step toward stability.

What’s Behind President Tinubu’s Decision?

Now, you might be wondering why President Bola Tinubu felt compelled to declare a state of emergency. Ladoja has an answer for that. According to him, the President had every reason to act. "The President has his reasons," Ladoja said, emphasizing that this decision wasn’t born out of a desire to undermine democracy but rather to address the chaos that had taken root in Rivers State. It’s not about politics as usual—it’s about putting the brakes on instability and sending a message to other governors: keep things in check.

And guess what? Ladoja believes the move is already paying off. "Now, there’s relative peace in Rivers State," he noted. That’s a big deal in a region that’s been caught up in political turmoil. So, before we rush to judgment, maybe we should take a step back and see this as a chance to reset the table.

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Is This a Warning to Other Governors?

Let’s talk about the bigger picture here. Ladoja didn’t shy away from the idea that this could serve as a wake-up call to governors across the country. "It’s a warning to other governors to sit tight," he explained. Think about it: if things spiral out of control in one state, it could ripple across the nation. This move is a reminder that leaders have a responsibility to maintain order—not just for their own states but for the country as a whole.

But here’s the thing: Ladoja isn’t just about laying down the law. He’s also about finding solutions. He sees this moment of crisis as an opportunity for reconciliation. "It’s now time for Wike and Fubara to sit down and talk," he urged, referring to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara. These leaders need to ask themselves a fundamental question: "What are we fighting for?"

Can Six Months Bring Peace to Rivers State?

Six months might seem like a short time to turn things around, but Ladoja believes it’s enough to make a difference. "They should use this period of emergency to settle their differences," he advised. Imagine what could happen if Wike and Fubara used this time to focus on the well-being of their state instead of their personal disputes. It’s not just about politics; it’s about progress. And Ladoja is optimistic about the future. "I believe everything will be stabilized in the next six months," he confidently stated.

At the end of the day, it’s about bringing peace and stability back to Rivers State. Whether you agree with the state of emergency or not, one thing is clear: the people of Rivers deserve a chance to live without fear and uncertainty. And if this period can help bridge the divide between leaders, then maybe it’s worth it. As Ladoja reminds us, sometimes tough decisions are necessary to pave the way for a brighter future.