The Concerned Citizens Forum of Nigeria (CCFN) has categorically condemned the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its reckless and undemocratic call for emergency rule in the state.
The group said the move by the APC is a deliberate and calculated maneuver aimed at exacerbating the existing instability in the region for political expediency.
Speaking at a press conference Friday in Abuja, Executive Director, Dr. Ekeanyanwu Promise, said the
current crisis in the local government system is a result of the APC’s own internal contradictions and mismanagement, and declaring a state of emergency would undermine democratic governance.
According to Promise, implementing such a measure would only serve to erode the trust of the populace in the democratic process, further disenfranchising the people of Rivers State and potentially exacerbating the existing tensions.
The group, therefore, urged President Bola Tinubu to sanction the conduct of a comprehensive investigation into the APC’s involvement in the security breaches in Rivers State and hold them accountable for any wrongdoing.
“We are dismayed and apprehensive about the recent declaration by the All Progressives Congress (APC) advocating for a state of emergency in Rivers State. This proposition, rather than offering a solution, appears to be a deliberate and calculated maneuver aimed at exacerbating the existing instability in the region for political expediency,” Promise said.
“We, therefore, unequivocally and emphatically condemn the APC’s call for a state of emergency in Rivers State, as it is not only unwarranted but also a deliberate attempt to plunge the state into chaos, confusion, and turmoil. This move is a thinly veiled ploy to conceal their own culpability and destabilize the peace in Rivers State for political gain.
“The narrative being perpetuated by the APC is patently false and misleading, as they seek to portray themselves as innocent bystanders while deflecting accountability for the current situation. We, however, see through this smokescreen and recognize their actions for what they truly are – a deliberate attempt to manipulate the situation for political advantage.
“While we acknowledge that the security situation in Rivers State is a concern that requires attention, we urge the relevant authorities to adopt proactive measures that address the root causes of the issue. Declaring a state of emergency is not a viable solution, as it will only lead to further violence, displacement, and human rights violations.
