Declaration of state of emergency in Rivers was inevitable – Ex-PANDEF spokesperson
The immediate past Publicity Secretary of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and Convener of Concerned Citizens of Rivers State, Dr. Ken Robinson, has described President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State as an inevitable decision.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Robinson expressed hope that the president’s intervention would bring an end to the crisis that has plagued the state.
“Unfortunately, the declaration of a State of Emergency on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, by President Bola Tinubu, and the subsequent measures taken by him were both imperative and inevitable,” he stated.
He further emphasized that the decision was necessary to prevent further chaos, safeguard lives and property, and protect the national economy from potential disruptions.
“This action has, we hope, put an end to the unnecessary crisis and averted the potential loss of innocent lives and property in the state, as well as threats to our national economy and security,” he added.
Robinson recalled that in December 2023, the Concerned Citizens of Rivers State had called for peace and reconciliation among the warring factions following the president’s second intervention. However, he lamented that their efforts were met with resistance from those with vested interests in the conflict.
“Look at where we are today. Those who should feel ashamed are the individuals in influential positions who could have provided constructive advice to resolve the situation but instead chose sides and exacerbated it,” he stated.
He prayed for the swift restoration of peace and stability in Rivers State, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the interests of the people over political disputes.
