The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep concern over President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a national broadcast on Tuesday evening, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the state House of Assembly.
He also appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the interim administrator to oversee governance in the state.
Reacting to the development, PANDEF’s National Spokesman, Obiuwevbi Ominimini, described the situation as “seriously alarming.”
He stated that the group is closely monitoring the events and will issue an official position soon.
“PANDEF is seriously alarmed by the state of emergency declared in Rivers State due to a crisis that is ordinarily avoidable,” Ominimini said.
“We are therefore studying the situation and will soon come up with PANDEF’s position.”
The declaration has sparked political tensions in Rivers State, with reactions pouring in from key stakeholders across the country.