Port Harcourt, Nigeria - Chetam Thierry Nwala, a prominent Rivers State lawyer, has accused President Bola Tinubu of harboring animosity toward Rivers State, alleging that the president’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, is a deliberate attempt to cripple the state’s economy due to its competition with Lagos. In a fiery interview with ARISE NEWS on Friday, May 16, 2025, Nwala criticized the federal government’s actions as politically motivated and unconstitutional, claiming they have devastated Rivers State’s economic and democratic fabric.
The state of emergency, which led to the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) as sole administrator, was justified by the presidency as a response to political clashes between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, as well as incidents like a reported bomb blast. However, Nwala dismissed these justifications, noting that the affected company confirmed no lasting damage to critical infrastructure and had resumed operations. “So why are you declaring a state of emergency?” he questioned, arguing that the move violates the Constitution and the will of Rivers people.
Nwala pointed to economic rivalry as the true motive, stating, “The President wants to destroy Rivers State because it is in direct competition with Lagos, which he controls.” He claimed that the emergency rule has deterred investments, wrecked livelihoods, and plunged the state into economic ruin. “The emergence of Ibas in Rivers State today has destroyed Rivers’ economy and destroyed Rivers State completely,” Nwala said, laying ultimate blame on Tinubu’s leadership.
The lawyer’s remarks echo broader sentiments of discontent, with posts on X and reports indicating widespread criticism of the emergency rule. The Rivers State Trade Union Congress boycotted the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration, calling the declaration “hasty and unconstitutional,” while PDP youth leaders and governors have labeled it a threat to democracy. Protests by groups like the Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group have also decried the rule as an “occupation” rather than an intervention.
Despite some support, such as from the National Association of Polytechnic Students, who praised Tinubu’s decisive action, the declaration has sparked legal challenges, including a suit filed against the federal government at the ECOWAS Court. Critics, including US law professor Cyprian Edward-Ekpo, have warned that the move undermines Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
Nwala called for the immediate restoration of democracy in Rivers State, emphasizing, “We are interested in the soul of Rivers State, and anybody who touches the soul of Rivers State touches Rivers people.” He urged the federal government to reverse the emergency rule to revive the state’s economy and honor the democratic rights of its citizens.
As Rivers State grapples with the fallout, the controversy surrounding Tinubu’s decision continues to fuel debate, with growing calls for dialogue and resolution to restore stability. For the latest developments, follow ARISE NEWS or local news outlets.
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