Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has distanced himself from the South-South Governors’ Forum’s condemnation of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo clarified that the forum’s position did not reflect his views, as he was neither consulted nor informed before the statement was released.
While acknowledging the right of other South-South governors to express their opinions, he firmly dissociated himself from any stance opposing the emergency declaration.
According to him, he fully supports the measures taken by President Tinubu, believing they will bring lasting peace and stability to Rivers State and the South-South region.
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Meanwhile, The New Daily Prime reported that the South-South Governors’ Forum, through its chairman, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, rejected the declaration, arguing that the current political situation in Rivers State does not meet the constitutional criteria for such an action.
The forum condemned Tinubu’s decision, emphasising that a state of emergency should only be declared under extreme circumstances such as war, external aggression, or a total breakdown of public order—none of which, they argued, apply to Rivers State.
Additionally, the forum highlighted that the Nigerian Constitution outlines clear procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as well as the dissolution of a legislature.
They suggested that these procedures may not have been properly followed in this case.
