By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Lagos
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a necessary step to prevent further escalation of the crisis in the state.
Speaking in an interview with newsmen in Lagos, NNPP National Chairman, Dr. Agbo Major, stated that no responsible government would allow a worsening security situation to persist without taking decisive action.
“President Tinubu is the Chief Security Officer of the country, and the information available to him may not be in the public domain. Leadership requires making tough decisions in the best interest of the people,” Major said.
He argued that the security situation in Rivers had become a serious threat to lives and property, adding that the emergency rule was a preventive measure.
“If the government had not stepped in, no one can say what the situation in Rivers would be by now. Some leaders who should have worked for peace allowed the crisis to fester before stepping in to criticize,” he added.
Major also emphasized that Tinubu’s leadership style is about taking bold decisions, even when they are unpopular.
“It was a difficult decision to remove the oil subsidy, one that previous administrations avoided. Tinubu took the step, and we are gradually emerging from that crisis. Governance is about making tough choices, not pleasing everyone,” he noted.
Addressing concerns over the six-month emergency rule, Major urged Rivers residents to see it as a necessary intervention rather than a political move.
“The emergency rule is in the best interest of the people. Those crying foul should not be allowed to mislead the public. The focus should be on restoring peace,” he stated.
He also warned political leaders against making inflammatory statements that could worsen the crisis, urging them to prioritize the nation’s stability.
“Our focus should be on constructive criticism that drives development. The Renewed Hope Agenda should guide us, focusing on trust, technology, agriculture, education, and the rule of law,” he said.
On the role of former Rivers governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Major dismissed suggestions that Wike’s involvement in the state’s affairs was unusual.
“As a minister, Wike is not the Inspector General of Police, the EFCC Chairman, the Attorney General, or the President. He is entitled to have interests in his state, just like any other politician,” Major said.
He also called for a more responsible opposition, stating that democracy thrives on constructive engagement rather than blind criticism.
“Opposition should be about improving governance, not just opposing everything the government does. If it becomes about rejecting policies without offering alternatives, then something is wrong,” he concluded.