CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has distanced itself from the South-South Governors’ Forum’s opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration in Rivers State.
Expressing full support for the move, the government emphasized its commitment to restoring order amid the escalating unrest.
In a statement on Thursday, Press Secretary Barr. Fred Abua clarified that Acting Governor Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey was neither consulted nor informed before the forum issued its critical remarks on the presidential directive.
The South-South Governors’ Forum had raised concerns about the constitutionality and broader implications of Tinubu’s decision.
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However, Dr. Odey firmly aligned with the President, calling the state of emergency “a necessary step in safeguarding national security, peace, and stability.”
“Every responsible government must prioritize the protection of lives and property,” the statement read. “When circumstances demand decisive action, such measures must be supported for the greater good of our democracy and national unity.”
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional governance, the Cross River State Government stressed that the forum’s position did not reflect its views.
The lack of prior consultation, it noted, was a key reason for this divergence.
The statement concluded with a call for unity, pledging continued collaboration with the federal government to ensure peace, security, and stability across the country.
