The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has stated that it will not take a stance on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing its role as a neutral platform focused on policy coordination and socioeconomic development.
In a statement released on Saturday, NGF Director General Abdulateef Shittu highlighted that adopting positions on politically charged matters risks alienating members with differing views and reflects a misunderstanding of historical lessons.
Rivers State has been plagued by political turmoil for nearly two years, with tensions between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Sim Fubara, leading to a governance impasse.
In response, Tinubu declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, suspending Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the entire state legislature for six months.
He then appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the sole administrator.
The NGF called for public and media understanding, expressing confidence that appropriate conflict resolution mechanisms would be employed to manage the situation.
“The Forum serves as a coalition for state governments to foster unified policy directions and work with stakeholders to drive sustainable economic growth and improve citizens’ welfare,” the statement read.
While the NGF remains committed to advocating for key governance policies such as taxation, wages, education, and healthcare, it reiterated its decision to stay away from divisive political issues that could create rifts within its ranks.
