By Asiwaju Moshood Shittu, has expressed support for Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over his stance on the political crisis in Rivers State. Kwankwaso had recently criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in the state, calling it unnecessary and unconstitutional.
Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, also accused the judiciary of questionable rulings and slammed the legislature for acting as a rubber stamp. His comments have sparked reactions from various political figures, with Shittu describing them as a “step in the right direction.”
Speaking in Abuja, Shittu, a former Director-General (North) of the Kwankwaso Presidential Campaign Council, said, “These were the words expected from a two-term governor who understands governance and legislative processes. The Presidency’s actions, especially after the Supreme Court verdict and the quick ratification by the National Assembly, could disrupt the country’s fragile peace.”
He urged President Tinubu to consider Kwankwaso’s advice and warned that political brinkmanship at this stage could deepen the crisis. Instead of invoking emergency powers under Section 304 of the Constitution, he said, the federal government should have pursued reconciliation efforts in Rivers State.
“The way Kwankwaso took his time before making his comments shows statesmanship. It’s not too late for Mr. President to reconsider. Nigeria needs dialogue, not emergency powers,” Shittu stated.
His remarks add to the growing debate on the government’s handling of the Rivers crisis, with many urging a political solution rather than constitutional force.
