The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has maintained its neutrality on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The forum, which serves as a collective body for governors, aims to promote unity and joint policies that enhance Nigeria’s development.
The Director General of the NGF, Abdulateef Shittu, explained that the forum’s primary role is to support cooperation and economic progress, rather than delve into divisive political disputes.
He noted that engaging in such partisan issues could create discord and misunderstandings.
Rivers State has faced prolonged political turmoil for nearly two years, fueled by the conflict between former Governor Nyesom Wike and current Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This feud created a governance crisis that drew President Tinubu’s intervention.
On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
During this period, retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas was appointed Sole Administrator to manage the state.
While the NGF avoided commenting directly on the emergency declaration, it urged Nigerians to trust that the appropriate steps are being taken to handle the situation effectively.
The forum described itself as a neutral body focused on guiding governors toward shared goals, avoiding actions that could create rifts among its members.
The NGF pointed out that it has weathered past political divisions and remains dedicated to avoiding similar conflicts.
It reiterated that its purpose is to advance governance through unity, addressing key policy matters like education, taxation, and healthcare without getting entangled in partisan disputes.
In closing, the NGF reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating for Nigeria’s overall development while steering clear of actions that could compromise its inclusive approach.
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