Presidency Responds to Critics: Suspension of Fubara and Others Not a Power Grab

The Presidency has dismissed allegations that the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other political figures in Rivers State constitutes a power grab. Instead, it asserts that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervened to prevent the state from descending into chaos.

In a statement issued on Sunday, March 23, 2025, Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, defended the decision, emphasizing that allowing the crisis to escalate unchecked would have been reckless and irresponsible.

Rivers State on the Brink

The political turmoil in Rivers State, driven by a protracted power struggle between Governor Fubara and lawmakers loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had severely disrupted governance.

Despite Supreme Court rulings affirming constitutional processes, both factions remained entrenched, heightening tensions. The Presidency cited intelligence reports indicating that militants in the creeks were poised to sabotage vital oil infrastructure, posing a direct threat to Nigeria’s economic security.

“Imagine a scenario where the President failed to act,” the statement read. “The political deadlock could have escalated into violence, endangering lawmakers and jeopardizing critical oil infrastructure. Schools and hospitals would have shut down, investors would have fled, and the economic and humanitarian impact would have been devastating.”

By March 18, the Presidency stated that the crisis had reached a point where political negotiations were no longer viable, making decisive intervention necessary.

Justification for the Suspension

While some critics have described the suspension of Governor Fubara and other officials as undemocratic, the Presidency maintains that it was a necessary step to restore order rather than a bid for control.

“This is not a power grab,” the statement clarified. “The intervention is temporary, precise, and designed to restore—rather than replace—democratic institutions. The six-month suspension is a corrective measure to defuse tensions and ensure stable governance.”

It also called out critics for their selective outrage, noting that many who now condemn the intervention remained silent when Governor Fubara allegedly disregarded legislative authority.

“Democracy cannot function in a climate of lawlessness. Anarchy is its greatest threat,” Onanuga stated.

The Presidency cited Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants the President the authority to act in situations where national stability, law, order, and economic security are at risk. Historical precedents, including past states of emergency in Plateau and Borno States, as well as the doctrine of necessity, were also referenced to justify President Tinubu’s decision.

Restoring Stability

With the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd.) as Administrator of Rivers State, efforts to restore peace and normalcy have begun. One of his initial actions was engaging with traditional rulers to establish long-term solutions to the crisis.

The Presidency assured Nigerians that the state of emergency would be lifted as soon as stability is achieved, allowing elected officials to resume their duties.

Defending the President’s intervention, the statement quoted the 18th-century philosopher Edmund Burke: “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”

The statement concluded with a firm message to critics:

“President Tinubu chose decisive action over complacency. His intervention prioritized Nigeria’s stability over political convenience, preventing a deeper crisis. Those labeling him a ‘tyrant’ should ask themselves—can democracy thrive in chaos? The relative calm in Rivers today is proof that this decision was the right one. The President deserves commendation, not condemnation.”