FG Deploys 10,000 Troops to Rivers as Emergency Rule Takes Effect; Opposition, NLC Protest

 The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State following rising insecurity, particularly the activities of vandals targeting critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines. As part of the emergency measures, 10,000 security personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other forces have been deployed to the state to restore law and order.

The move comes after reports of significant vandalism on the Trans Niger Pipeline, leading to a massive fire outbreak and disruption of oil production. According to government sources, the Rivers State administration, led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, failed to adequately address these security concerns, prompting federal intervention. Consequently, the governor, his deputy, and all state lawmakers have been suspended for six months.

However, this decision has sparked widespread controversy. Opposition parties and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have openly condemned the move, calling it a direct attack on democracy. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) also criticized the declaration, arguing that an emergency rule should not result in the suspension of a democratically elected government. Many civil society organizations have warned that the federal government’s decision could set a dangerous precedent for political interference in state affairs.

Despite the backlash, the federal government insists that the move was necessary to prevent further deterioration of security in Rivers and safeguard vital economic assets in the oil-producing region. Security agencies have vowed to intensify operations against criminal elements in the state while monitoring the political situation closely.