The Nigeria Governors Forum, which emphasises its function as a forum for advancing united policies and working together for sustained socioeconomic progress, has stated that it is unable to take a stance on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency in Rivers State.
Abdulateef Shittu, the Director General of the NGF, stated in a statement on Saturday that adopting stances on contentious political matters, no matter how they are framed, betrays a lack of historical knowledge.
For almost two years, Rivers State has been plagued by political unrest as former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Sim Fubara, have been fighting for control, leading to a governance impasse.
Tinubu responded on Tuesday by announcing a state of emergency in the state.
He imposed a six-month suspension on Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and every member of the state House of Assembly.
The sole administrator was retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas.
The NGF responded by asking the public and media to show understanding and expressing confidence that any such concerns would be resolved using the appropriate forums and crisis management techniques.
It stated, “The Forum wishes to clarify that it is an umbrella body for subnational governments to promote unified policy positions and collaborate with relevant stakeholders in pursuit of sustainable socioeconomic growth and the well-being of the people.
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“As a technical and policy hub comprising governors elected on different platforms, the body elects to steer clear of taking positions that may alienate members with varying political interests.
“In whatever language it is written, taking positions on contentious partisan issues would mean a poor sense of history —just a few years after the Forum survived a fundamental division following political differences among its members.
“Regardless, the Forum is reputed for its bold positions on governance and general policy matters of profound consequences, such as wages, taxes, education, and universal healthcare, among others.”
