Tinubu's Move: A Necessary Step Towards Peace In Rivers State

Opobo's Leader Stands Behind Tinubu's Decision

Naija News brings you the latest insight from Dandeson Douglas Jaja V, the Amayanabo of Opobo, who believes President Bola Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is a step toward resolution, not division. Tinubu's move to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, alongside his deputy and the House of Assembly members, has sparked a mix of reactions—some praising the boldness of the decision, others questioning its legality. However, Jaja V has a unique perspective, rooted in the potential consequences of inaction.

When speaking with Arise News, the respected monarch didn't mince words. While he didn't outright defend the President's decision, he emphasized that Tinubu acted based on critical intelligence. In his own words, the state of emergency "is giving us time within which to look inwards, reform ourselves, and then talk to each other with the aim of finding a lasting solution to whatever problems that exist." Jaja V's tone was measured and reflective, urging everyone to consider the bigger picture rather than get lost in the immediate controversy.

Why Jaja V Believes the Move Was Necessary

The Amayanabo of Opobo explained that allowing the impeachment process to unfold unchecked could have had disastrous consequences for Rivers State—and, by extension, the entire nation. Picture this: if Governor Fubara were impeached, it could have set off a chain reaction. Overzealous individuals might have taken matters into their own hands, targeting vital infrastructure like oil pipelines. The ripple effects would be catastrophic, leading to a sharp decline in oil production and, ultimately, crippling the Nigerian economy.

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History offers a cautionary tale. Decades ago, oil production plummeted from 2 million barrels a day to a mere 500,000 barrels. The nation nearly collapsed under the weight of such a loss. Jaja V warned that a similar scenario could unfold if tensions in Rivers State spiraled out of control. "If the House of Assembly were to impeach the governor and some misguided young men decided to blow up the pipelines, how do you think this country would fare?" he questioned. "We'd be trying to solve Rivers' internal problems while simultaneously quelling a national crisis. And let’s not forget the human cost—loss of lives, destruction, and chaos."

A Rational Voice Amid the Noise

Jaja V made it clear that he isn't a politician or a lawyer. He doesn't claim to have the legal expertise to dissect the Constitution or the political savvy to weigh in on Tinubu's decision. But what he does have is common sense—and a deep understanding of the stakes involved. "The President has access to information the rest of us don't," he explained. "He must have considered numerous factors before taking this step. To judge him as right or wrong without all the facts would be presumptuous."

He went on to say, "The Constitution does grant the President certain powers, but these powers come with conditions. If Tinubu exercised those powers, it's because he believed it was the best course of action to protect the nation. Whether you agree or disagree, we can all acknowledge that he had a reason for doing what he did. And in a time of crisis, isn't it better to err on the side of caution?"

In essence, Jaja V isn't just defending Tinubu—he's asking Nigerians to pause and think critically. While the state of emergency may be unsettling, it could prevent a far worse outcome. As the nation watches and waits, the hope is that this temporary measure will pave the way for lasting peace and stability in Rivers State.