Rivers Government Says Abuja-based Politicians Plotting For Declaration of Emergency Rule in State

The Rivers State Government has said it has uncovered plans by some unnamed politicians from the state based in Abuja to create tension in the state so as to cause the declaration of state of emergency in the state.

The Commissioner of Information and Communications, Paulinus Nsirim, in a statement on Tuesday, said instead of supporting the state’s efforts in the fight against the spread of coronavirus, the politicians are looking for ways to create troubles in the state.

“As the build-up for the 2023 elections and jostle for Presidential and Vice-Presidential tickets is gathering momentum, they want to use COVID-19 to create a crisis as if the State is at war with the Federal Government.

“They have decided to create unnecessary tension as if indigenes of Ahoada, Eleme, and Port Harcourt are fighting with Northerners not to carry out their legitimate businesses.

“This is the same thing that the Rivers State Government is doing to protect the State from COVID-19. But here in Rivers State, instead of supporting our efforts, these Abuja politicians are busy looking for the State of Emergency because they want to acquire power.

“We are alarmed at these hideous plots against our State. Rivers State has never fought a war with strangers or neighbours. Our fight against COVID-19 is to protect the lives of everyone living and doing business in the State.