The Cross River State Government has formally dissociated itself from the South-South Governors’ Forum’s reservations regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing its full support for the federal government’s decision to restore order amid escalating unrest.
In a press release issued on Thursday by Barr. Fred Abua, Press Secretary to the Acting Governor, the state clarified that Acting Governor Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey was neither consulted nor informed prior to the forum’s public statement criticizing the presidential directive.
The forum, comprising governors from Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone, had expressed concerns over the constitutionality and implications of the emergency declaration.
The press release underscored Dr. Odey’s alignment with President Tinubu’s decision, describing it as “a necessary step taken in the best interest of national security, peace, and stability.” It further stated, “Every responsible government must prioritize the protection of lives and property, and where circumstances necessitates decisive action, such measures must be supported for the greater good of our democracy and national unity.”
The statement reiterated Cross River State’s commitment to constitutional governance and collaboration with the federal government to address security challenges. It emphasized that the forum’s position “does not reflect the views of the Cross River State Government,” citing the lack of prior consultation as a critical factor.
The press release concluded with a call for unity: “Cross River State remains committed to upholding constitutional governance and will continue to collaborate with Federal Government in ensuring peace, security, and stability across the country.”
