Rivers Crisis: Fubara Is Slapping Democracy In The Face – APC National Publicity Secretary

Speaking in an interview on Eagle 102.5 FM, Morka reacted to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, stating that many commentators on the issue were politically biased. He insisted that Fubara had been making undemocratic decisions since assuming office.

Morka questioned why the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, remained silent while Fubara allegedly attempted to abolish the state legislature.

“Most people commenting on this matter are politically biased and not objective. If they were, I am certain I would have been invited to discuss Governor Fubara’s continuous assault on democracy. His actions have been a direct slap in the face of democracy,” Morka said.

He accused Fubara of attempting to replace the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, and when that failed, resorting to demolishing the Assembly complex, which effectively halted legislative activities in the state.

“Despite these undemocratic moves, opposition voices remained silent. Peter Obi did not utter a word while Fubara sought to dismantle the state legislature. The governor also proceeded to freeze financial allocations,” he added.

Defending the declaration of a state of emergency, Morka stated that President Bola Tinubu acted within the provisions of Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows such a measure in cases of severe threats to national security and governance.

According to him, intelligence reports pointed to escalating security risks in Rivers State, including threats to critical oil infrastructure, particularly the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP), which was reportedly vandalized.

Morka further clarified that the decision was not unilateral but was later ratified by a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly.

“The National Assembly is a multi-party institution, not just an APC, PDP, or Labour Party assembly. Representatives from all parties assessed the situation and approved the President’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State,” he stated.