Abuja: The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has stated that the recent reconciliation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the Rivers House of Assembly substantiates President Bola Tinubu’s decision to implement an emergency rule in Rivers State. This assertion was made in a statement by the group’s Chairman, Mr. Emeka Nwankpa, and Secretary, Mr. Dapo Okubanjo.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the TMSG observed that the governor and lawmakers’ current commitment to a cooperative relationship marks a significant change from their previously rigid stances prior to the March 8 emergency rule declaration. The group highlighted that several political figures, including elder statesmen, had criticized President Tinubu’s announcement of concluding the six-month emergency rule, viewing it as unworthy of celebration.
The TMSG noted that the recent statements from the lawmakers and Governor Fubara’s broadcast clearly indicate a renewed spirit of cooperation between the two arms of government. This stands in contrast to the earlier political impasse that hampered peace and governance in the state.
The group further emphasized that the current situation is a significant improvement from the previous political tension, which necessitated Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration. It reflected on the earlier crisis, where both parties remained steadfast in their positions despite a court ruling, and the potential threat it posed to the state.
TMSG expressed surprise at the opposition’s claims that there was no justification for the emergency rule in a state crucial to the country’s oil infrastructure. The group encouraged Nigerians to recognize Governor Fubara’s acknowledgment of Tinubu’s role in facilitating a peace process that led to reconciliation among the parties for the benefit of the state’s residents.
The group asserted that this reconciliation was achieved during the emergency period, countering the opposition’s stance that the presidential declaration was unwarranted. TMSG expressed hope that the lessons learned would guide all parties to prioritize peace and stability in Rivers State. The group also called on political stakeholders who had been exacerbating the crisis to allow peace to prevail.