Atiku Abubakar To Lead Press Conference On Rivers State Emergency

Atiku Steps In: Addressing the Rivers State Crisis

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is set to take center stage today, Thursday, as he leads a group of key opposition political leaders in addressing a global press conference. The focus of this gathering is none other than the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This declaration, made just two days ago on Tuesday, has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, igniting a heated debate across the nation.

President Tinubu's swift action included not only the declaration of the state of emergency but also the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, her deputy, and members of the House of Assembly. Such a bold move has sparked a whirlwind of reactions from various quarters, with prominent figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi voicing their disapproval.

NBA Joins the Chorus of Discontent

Adding their voice to the growing chorus of disapproval, the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) condemned the President’s actions. In a statement issued by its president, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the NBA expressed grave concerns over the legality and implications of the President’s decision. This condemnation adds another layer of complexity to the already tense political atmosphere.

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Supporting the Presidential Move

Not everyone is on the same page, however. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, defended the President’s actions, asserting that they were well within the bounds of constitutional rights. He argued that the move was aimed at protecting Governor Fubara from an alleged impeachment plot, a claim that has sparked its own set of debates and discussions.

Press Conference Details

In a statement released on Thursday, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Media (Broadcast), Abdula Rasheeth, provided further details about the press conference. Scheduled to commence at 10:00 am, this high-profile event will take place at the prestigious Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre in Abuja. The lineup for the conference includes the dynamic duo of Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir El-Rufai, alongside the ever-controversial Peter Obi.

The statement read, “His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, GCON, Vice President of Nigeria 1999 – 2007, will be leading a Joint Press Conference today, Thursday, March 20, 2025, alongside Concerned Leaders and Political Stakeholders in Nigeria regarding the unconstitutional declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This event is a crucial moment for transparency and accountability, and all eyes will be on the leaders as they delve into the intricacies of this pressing issue.”