A prominent lawyer and native of Rivers State, Chetam Thierry Nwala, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, alleging that the move is politically motivated and aimed at stifling Rivers’ economic development.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS on Friday, Nwala criticized the federal government’s intervention, which he claimed reflects deep-seated animosity towards the state. The emergency declaration, made on March 18, 2025, followed escalating political and security tensions, including clashes between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and key political figures, notably the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers governor, Nyesom Wike.
As part of the declaration, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete-Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the state’s administrator, a move Nwala says has had dire consequences.
“The emergence of Ibas in Rivers State has destroyed the economy and destabilized the entire state,” he said. “I don’t blame him entirely. I blame the President. There is clear evidence of hostility towards Rivers people from the presidency.”
Nwala challenged the justification for the emergency rule, noting that even incidents cited—such as a reported bomb blast—did not cause lasting damage to infrastructure, and the affected company later confirmed that operations had resumed.
“So why declare a state of emergency?” he queried. “The President’s decision runs contrary to the wishes of Rivers people and undermines the principles of our Constitution and laws.”
He also accused the federal government of economic sabotage, alleging that Rivers State is being targeted because it rivals Lagos in economic potential.
“I believe the President wants to suppress Rivers State to ensure Lagos, which he controls, remains dominant,” Nwala stated. “This raises serious concerns about his leadership priorities.”
Calling for an end to what he described as federal overreach, Nwala emphasized the need to restore democratic governance in Rivers State.
“We care about the soul of Rivers State. Anyone who tampers with it is tampering with its people,” he said. “The economy is crumbling, investments are drying up, and livelihoods are disappearing. What we demand is simple—restore democracy to Rivers State. Nothing more, nothing less.
