Senator Arise says the Rivers State emergency rule will not affect President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election, ensuring peace and stability in the state.
Senator Ayodele Arise, a leading All Progressives Congress (APC) figure from Ekiti State, has affirmed that the Rivers State emergency rule and its recent lifting will not impact President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election prospects.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, he emphasized that the temporary federal intervention was necessary to restore order and safeguard democracy in the oil-rich state.
The Rivers State emergency rule was declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) was appointed to oversee the administration during this period.
Following the expiration of the emergency rule, Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the previously suspended lawmakers have fully resumed office, signaling a return to normal governance.
This intervention ensured that political and administrative activities could continue without disruption.
Senator Arise highlighted that the emergency rule was a decisive move prompted by critical events in the state.
He cited Governor Fubara’s demolition of the Rivers State Assembly building as a significant threat to democratic governance.
“Before the emergency rule, Rivers State was approaching chaos. Lawmakers could not function, and vital oil installations were under threat.
“The President had no choice but to act decisively,” Arise explained.
He further noted that Rivers State’s economic significance made federal intervention critical. “Any unrest could have disrupted oil production and displaced professionals working in Port Harcourt.
“President Tinubu’s action restored order, protected citizens, and ensured the economy continued to function,” he added.
Addressing concerns that voters might punish the President for the emergency rule, Arise dismissed such claims.
He pointed out the APC’s strong performance in Rivers State, recalling that the party won 14 out of 23 local government areas in the last presidential election. Recent local government elections also reinforced the party’s grassroots influence.
On Governor Fubara’s alignment with the President’s ambitions, Arise said: “Governor Fubara understands the political reality.
“Even if he does not openly declare support, the APC’s grassroots network is strong, and local officials who benefit from APC-led initiatives will naturally sustain support for the President.”
Senator Arise emphasized the need for harmony in the state, particularly between Governor Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
“The Governor has openly expressed his commitment to peace. The idea of perpetual conflict between him and Minister Wike is outdated.
“For the residents’ welfare and the state’s development, political harmony is essential,” he said.
The APC chieftain also noted that the emergency rule had a long-term benefit: it prevented further breakdown of governance and protected vital infrastructures.
“This was not about political posturing; it was about safeguarding democracy and security. The President acted at the right time to preserve order and maintain functional governance,” Arise added.
Senator Arise expressed confidence that APC would retain support across Rivers State in the 2027 elections. He pointed to the party’s strong grassroots networks and local government structures.
“Local government officials who have benefited from APC-led programs are motivated to maintain party support. With these structures in place, President Tinubu is well-positioned for re-election,” he said.
Economic incentives, Arise argued, are key to political stability. Development projects and job opportunities initiated under APC leadership have strengthened loyalty among grassroots supporters.
“Those benefiting from these programs are inclined to support the party and the President. This is essential for maintaining political stability and APC’s influence,” he emphasized.
The Senator further argued that the Rivers State emergency rule highlighted President Tinubu’s decisive leadership.
“Rivers State is pivotal to national revenue and regional stability.
“By acting swiftly, the President preserved democratic structures, secured oil operations, and ensured residents could live safely. This intervention showcased effective governance,” Arise said.
Senator Arise reiterated that the Rivers State emergency rule has neither weakened APC’s influence nor affected President Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027. Instead, it restored order, reinforced party structures, and ensured political and economic stability.
“The President’s decisive action preserved democracy, promoted peace, and safeguarded economic interests.
“With these achievements, he remains in a strong position as the 2027 elections approach,” he concluded.
The APC’s continued grassroots presence, strategic leadership, and alignment with the President’s vision make Rivers State a stronghold for the party moving forward.
The Rivers State emergency rule is likely to be remembered not as a setback but as a critical step in maintaining peace and stability.
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