The Acting Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey, has distanced himself from the South-South Governors’ Forum’s stance opposing President Bola Tinubu’s decision to suspend Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and impose a state of emergency.
In a statement signed by his Press Secretary, Fred Abua, Odey clarified that he was neither consulted nor his opinion sought before the forum issued its position.
“The position of the forum does not reflect the views of the Government of Cross River State, which fully aligns with the decision of Mr. President, taken in the best interest of national security, peace, and stability,” he stated.
He further explained that safeguarding lives and property must be the priority of any responsible government, adding that the Cross River State government fully supports the President’s decision.
“Every responsible government must prioritize the protection of lives and property, and where circumstances necessitate decisive action, such measures should be supported for the greater good of our democracy and national unity. Cross River State remains committed to upholding constitutional governance and will continue to collaborate with the Federal Government in ensuring peace, security, and stability across the country,” he added.
Odey is not the only South-South governor who has distanced himself from the forum’s position. Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo had earlier also disassociated himself from the forum’s rejection of the emergency rule in Rivers state.
President Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers followed a prolonged political crisis and the recent bombing of an oil pipeline in the state. The declaration, which came with sweeping measures, included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
However, the South-South Governors’ Forum, through its Chairman and Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, strongly condemned the move. In a statement, Diri argued that the situation in Rivers had not escalated to the level that warranted such a drastic measure.
Quoting Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, Diri insisted that a state of emergency should only be considered under specific conditions, including war, external aggression, imminent invasion, or a breakdown of public order that threatens national security.
He also pointed out that the Constitution outlines clear procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor in Section 188—procedures he claimed were not followed in this case.
“As a path forward to reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, the South-South Governors’ Forum proposes the rescission of the State of Emergency,” Diri stated.
