Chetam Thierry Nwala, a prominent lawyer and indigene of Rivers State, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in his state. Nwala asserts that Rivers State was targeted because of its strong economy and rivalry with Lagos.
The emergency was declared on March 18, 2025, amid political unrest following power struggles involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike-backed Rivers State House of Assembly.
Vice Admiral Ibok Ete-Ibas (Rtd) from neighbouring Cross River State was appointed Sole Administrator during the emergency rule, effectively truncating all democratic structures of governance.
“The emergence of Ibas in Rivers State today has destroyed Rivers’ economy and destroyed Rivers State completely. I don’t blame him so much. I blame the President because I think that there is this animosity the President has against Rivers people. It is very obvious from the facts on the ground,” Nwala said.
Political and Economic Tensions in Rivers
Rivers State is a vital economic hub, especially in oil production. It is considered the next most prosperous state after Lagos, from where President Tinubu comes from.
The state’s stability is critical for national growth. Many local businesses and investors have felt the impact of the emergency, reporting halted investments and daily disruptions. The move has raised concerns that government actions are more about undermining a prosperous region than ensuring security.
In a recent interview with Arise Tv, Nwala asked, “So why are you declaring a state of emergency?” He continued, “What the President has done is against the wishes of Rivers people, and the spirit of our Constitution and our laws.”
These statements come amid growing distrust, as many believe that political decisions are now disguised attempts to control the state’s humongous resources. Others speculate it’s about electoral positioning ahead of 20227 general election when President Tinubu will be seeking a second term, amid tight relations with other swathes of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Leaders and community members are now calling for transparency and accountability in government actions.
Calls for Restoring Democracy in Rivers
Nwala insists that the only remedy is to restore democracy in Rivers State. He argued that the emergency is a politically motivated tactic aimed at weakening Rivers in favor of Lagos.
“I have held the view that the President wants to destroy Rivers State because it is in direct competition with Lagos, which he controls. And this is a problem for us. It’s a major problem, because if he destroys Rivers State for Lagos to thrive, it tells so much about what the President is doing,” he elaborated.
He further warned, “We are interested in the soul of Rivers State, and anybody who touches the soul of Rivers State touches Rivers people. And that is why we are against what the President has done, because the President has destroyed the economy of Rivers State. He has made investments not to come to Rivers State. He has even destroyed the little livelihood we are managing. Go to Rivers State and see what is happening there.”
Concluding his remarks, Nwala declared, “But the point is simple. What we are saying is that democracy should be restored to Rivers State, and that is what we demand for. Nothing more, nothing less.”
His call for a return to democratic governance is simply a reckoning of other voices of leaders of the state, resonating with many who wish to see accountability and respect for the electoral and constitutional rights of the people of the state restored.
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