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From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) has weighed in on the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, seeking protection of the democratic rights of the state’s residents.
It also called on the Federal Government to be neutral, as its interventions so far have been perceived as one-sided. The association, which is the umbrella body of all political scientists in Nigeria, in a statement by its President, Prof Hassan Saliu, described the unfolding events in Rivers State as the quest for primitive accumulation at the expense of catering to the welfare of the people.
According to NPSA, the involvement of the former governor of the state and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, underscored the need to engage the duo and other critical stakeholders in meditation to resolve the issue.
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While expressing concerns over the dismantling of democratic structures in the state, NPSA noted that from the benefit of hindsight, a declaration of a state of emergency only offers temporary relief.
It further pointed out that the economic importance of Rivers States should prompt the Federal Government to tread cautiously on its handling of the crisis.
“The volatility of Rivers State, which significantly impacts national revenue, must be appreciated as various options are being considered in managing the crisis. The state’s strategic location and economic significance to the nation make it a critical hotspot. This point deserves to be taken cognizance of by Abuja authorities,” it stated.
