Former Oyo State governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, has expressed support for the emergency rule declared in Rivers State, stating that it has contributed to stabilizing the region.
According to Drivetvnews, President Bola Tinubu announced the emergency rule on March 18, 2025, in response to the ongoing political turmoil between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly aligned with former governor Nyesom Wike. As part of this measure, Tinubu suspended both the governor and the legislators for six months, appointing a sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.
The decision has sparked widespread debate, with many critics arguing that it violates constitutional provisions. However, Ladoja, speaking to journalists at his private residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan, after Eid-el-Fitr prayers on Tuesday, defended Tinubu’s action. He described the move as a necessary step to defuse tensions and restore order in the state.
“If declaring emergency rule is what it takes to bring peace back to Rivers State, then it is a welcome decision,” Ladoja stated.
The former governor also urged Governor Fubara and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike to put their differences aside for the sake of the state’s progress.
He further noted that legal proceedings had already been initiated, with some stakeholders taking the matter to court. “Even the PDP governors have taken the case to the Supreme Court, and a verdict is expected soon. Whatever the court decides will be binding on all parties,” Ladoja added.
