In a significant development, The Democratic Front (TDF) has joined other patriotic groups and notable Nigerians in supporting President Bola Tinubu’s recent proclamation of a State of Emergency in Rivers State.
This endorsement was highlighted in an official statement released on Wednesday in Abuja by TDF Chairman, Malam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo. The group described the move as a decisive step to prevent a complete breakdown of law and order following prolonged political discord between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in the state.
A Timely Intervention Amidst Political Crisis
TDF recalled that less than a week before the presidential proclamation, President Tinubu had hosted the leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in Abuja. During the meeting, he emphasized the urgent need to implement the Supreme Court judgment recognizing the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Following the event, TDF had issued a statement urging all stakeholders to heed the President’s advice in obeying the Supreme Court ruling and embracing reconciliation, a process initiated by Tinubu over a year ago. However, PANDEF’s efforts to mediate between the conflicting parties failed to yield a significant resolution, leading to a prolonged political impasse that has severely hindered the state’s administration and economic progress for nearly two years.
Preventing a Further Breakdown of Law and Order
The group noted that both factions in the dispute appeared unwilling to collaborate for the common good of the state. TDF expressed concerns that allowing the situation to persist could lead to lawlessness, including incidents such as the recent bombing of pipelines, which pose serious threats to national security and economic stability.
“No responsible President or government would remain passive while witnessing the rapid deterioration of governance in Rivers State, transforming an orderly democratic system into a state of lawlessness and unrest,” the statement read.
National Assembly’s Unanimous Approval
TDF also commended the National Assembly for its unanimous approval of the emergency rule, emphasizing that President Tinubu’s decision was made in the best interest of peace, stability, and the safety of Rivers State residents.
The organization called on all parties involved in the conflict to use the six-month emergency rule as an opportunity to resolve their differences peacefully and restore democratic governance in the state.
As Rivers State navigates this critical period, the support from influential groups like The Democratic Front highlights the urgency and necessity of President Tinubu’s intervention. The success of the emergency rule will largely depend on the willingness of stakeholders to embrace dialogue and prioritize the welfare of the state over political interests.
