Rotimi Amaechi Speaks Out: Tinubu's Emergency Rule In Rivers State A Political Power Play?

Amaechi Accuses Tinubu of Using Emergency Rule as a Political Weapon

Let me tell you something, folks. The former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, isn’t holding back when it comes to President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. In a candid interview with DW Africa on Friday, Amaechi didn’t mince words. He laid it out there, accusing Tinubu of using the emergency rule as a calculated strategy to intimidate governors into supporting his re-election bid in 2027. This isn’t just about governance; it’s about power dynamics, plain and simple.

What Led to the Emergency Declaration?

On March 18, President Tinubu made headlines by declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. Now, the reasons given were pretty straightforward—political instability and the ongoing vandalism of oil facilities. But here’s the kicker: this decision didn’t just stop at addressing those issues. No, it went further. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and every single member of the state’s House of Assembly were suspended for six months. To top it all off, Tinubu appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state. That’s a bold move, to say the least.

Criticism from All Corners

The reaction to Tinubu’s actions has been nothing short of intense. Critics, including members of the civil society and even the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), have come out swinging. They’re calling this move unconstitutional, questioning the legality and the motives behind such a drastic step. And let’s not forget, Amaechi himself, who served as governor of Rivers State in the past, is raising his voice in protest. He’s not just any critic; he knows the terrain well.

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According to Amaechi, this declaration of emergency isn’t just about Rivers State—it’s a message to all governors. He believes it’s a scare tactic, a way to make governors think twice about supporting Tinubu’s re-election campaign. In his own words, “It is between the president and the FCT minister. The president wants a power grab. They want to frighten governors who may not support them in 2027. So, there is a rumour everywhere that if you are not careful, the president will remove you.”

Challenging the Logic Behind the Decision

Now, let’s talk about the logic—or lack thereof—behind this decision. Amaechi pointed out that if Tinubu’s justification for the emergency rule is insecurity and the vandalism of pipelines, then why single out Rivers State? Isn’t there insecurity in other parts of the country too? “What about part of the country where there is insecurity? Is the president saying they should impose emergency rule on him too?” Amaechi questioned. It’s a fair point. If insecurity is the issue, why not take a broader approach? Why target one state specifically?

Who’s Responsible for Security?

Another angle Amaechi brought up is the question of responsibility. He emphasized that Governor Fubara doesn’t have control over security matters in Rivers State. That responsibility, he argued, lies squarely with the federal government and, ultimately, the president. So, why punish someone for something they have no control over? “Rivers governor has no security responsibility; it rests squarely on the president. So why punish a man who did not commit an offence?” Amaechi asked, highlighting the unfairness of the situation.

A Call to Action for Rivers Residents

In his closing remarks, Amaechi didn’t just stop at criticism. He took it a step further by urging the people of Rivers State to stand up against what he sees as an unjust decision. He encouraged them to engage in democratic protests, to make their voices heard. It’s a call for unity and resilience, reminding everyone that democracy is about standing up for what’s right, even when the odds seem stacked against you.