Chief Tony Okocha Supports State of Emergency in Rivers, Calls It Necessary Decision
Chief Tony Okocha, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has characterized the recent declaration of a state of emergency as a painful yet essential and timely measure.
In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, which was made public in Port Harcourt on Thursday, Okocha expressed that the current political climate in Rivers has become increasingly unstable.
He referenced an African proverb, stating, “an elder doesn’t sit to watch a goat deliver her baby on tethers,” to emphasize the importance of decisive action during critical times.
“Mr. President’s decision for the State of Emergency in Rivers State was timely,” Okocha affirmed. “We have heard the drumbeat of war and the ethnicization of our political issues.”
Okocha applauded the President for implementing the emergency rule, noting that it serves the greater good of the state and offers much-needed relief to the populace. He also praised the President for various appointments benefiting Rivers indigenes, with hopes that APC members will continue to receive opportunities.
The APC chairman criticized the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for failing to include party members in key positions, describing the previous administration’s outreach as inadequate.
In a show of support for the current governance, Okocha congratulated Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), the newly appointed Sole Administrator, citing his extensive experience and distinguished service to the nation as significant assets.
Okocha reiterated the APC’s commitment to collaborate with Ibas in order to align with the President’s vision for the state’s improvement.