Warisenibo Johnson, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, calling it a brazen assault on democracy. Johnson insisted that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration has remained fully functional, with no governance breakdown to warrant such drastic federal intervention.
Johnson emphasized that salaries have been paid promptly, major projects are progressing, and peace has prevailed in Rivers State. He described the federal government’s action as an unnecessary provocation, warning that it could destabilize the region and set a dangerous precedent for political interference in state affairs.
Warisenibo Johnson: “The Constitution Does Not Support This”
Warisenibo Johnson has raised legal concerns over the legitimacy of the state of emergency, arguing that the 1999 Constitution clearly outlines the conditions under which such a declaration can be made. He asserted that Rivers State has not faced a war, large-scale violence, or any form of governance collapse that would necessitate federal intervention.
Johnson further criticized the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state lawmakers, stating that such actions amount to an unconstitutional power grab. He challenged legal experts to scrutinize the federal government’s justification for this move, expressing confidence that the courts would overturn what he termed a reckless abuse of power.
Warisenibo Johnson: “This Is a Political Coup Disguised as Governance”
Warisenibo Johnson has accused political opponents of using the state of emergency as a tool to weaken Governor Fubara’s leadership. He pointed to the ongoing political tensions between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, suggesting that the federal government’s decision favors one faction over the other.
Johnson alleged that the declaration was orchestrated by vested interests who are determined to undermine Fubara’s administration. He warned that allowing politics to dictate emergency governance measures could lead to instability across the country, as opposition-led states might become frequent targets of federal interference.
Warisenibo Johnson: “Nigerians Must Resist This Democratic Subversion”
Warisenibo Johnson has urged Nigerians, civil society organizations, and democracy advocates to resist what he described as an illegal takeover of Rivers State. He accused the federal government of undermining the will of the people, who elected Governor Fubara through a legitimate democratic process.
Johnson called on opposition parties, legal experts, and international observers to take a firm stand against the move. He warned that if Tinubu’s decision is not challenged, it could create a dangerous precedent where any governor who does not align with federal interests could be removed through emergency declarations.
Warisenibo Johnson: “Security Forces Must Not Be Used for Political Intimidation”
Warisenibo Johnson has raised concerns over the increased deployment of military and security agencies to key government facilities in Rivers State. He described the heavy security presence as an intimidation tactic designed to suppress resistance to the emergency declaration.
Johnson urged security agencies to remain neutral and avoid being used as tools of political suppression. He warned that militarizing the state could provoke unnecessary confrontations, further escalating tensions. He called for dialogue rather than force, emphasizing that Rivers people will not accept unlawful federal control of their state.
Warisenibo Johnson: “We Will Fight This Legally and Politically”
Warisenibo Johnson has vowed that the Rivers State Government will challenge the emergency declaration in court, confident that the judiciary will rule in favor of the state’s autonomy. He stressed that legal actions would be taken to reverse the suspension of Governor Fubara and restore constitutional governance.
Johnson also hinted at political mobilization, stating that Rivers people would not sit idly while their democratic rights are stripped away. He called on lawmakers, political leaders, and citizens to remain vigilant and prepared to defend their state from what he described as an unconstitutional takeover.
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