Rashidi Ladoja, the former governor of Oyo State and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, has expressed his support for the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, stating that the move has led to relative peace in the state.
In a statement made on Sunday, March 30, Ladoja referred to the emergency rule as a welcome development that has helped to ease the tension between the political leaders in Rivers.
The declaration came after months of escalating conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, which was loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike.
NewDailyPrime reported that President Bola Tinubu declared the emergency rule on March 18, 2025, following the protracted political crisis. The president also suspended both Governor Fubara and the lawmakers for a period of six months and appointed a sole administrator to oversee the state’s governance during the emergency period.
The decision has sparked widespread debate, with many critics alleging that President Tinubu’s actions may have violated the country’s constitution. Some opposition leaders, including youth factions of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), have opposed the declaration, calling it an overreach.
However, in an exclusive interview with journalists at his private residence in Ibadan, Ladoja defended the emergency rule.
Speaking after the Eid-el-Fitr prayer service on Tuesday, he expressed his belief that the move was necessary to restore normalcy in the state.
“The emergency rule declared by the President in Rivers is a welcomed development if that is what will restore peace back to the state,” Ladoja said.
He explained that the tense political atmosphere had reached a point where drastic measures were required to ensure stability.
Ladoja also advised both Governor Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to put aside their differences and work together for the betterment of Rivers State. He acknowledged that both sides had taken their grievances to court, with PDP governors even appealing the matter to the Supreme Court.
“The judgment will be faster. So, whatever the court says will bind both parties,” Ladoja remarked, stressing the importance of adhering to the legal process for a fair resolution.
He urged the parties involved to focus on serving the state and its citizens rather than continuing a prolonged political battle.
The crisis in Rivers State has significantly affected its governance, with the suspended governor and the legislature engaged in a bitter power struggle. The declaration of emergency rule is seen by many as a step to defuse the situation and prevent further destabilisation in the state.
