Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being involved in the political crisis in Rivers State, stating that the declaration of a state of emergency in the state is a politically motivated and dishonest move.

In a statement, Atiku claimed that anyone following the events in Rivers State would understand that Tinubu has a hand in the crisis. He further stated that the failure to take decisive action or the attempt to shy away from responsibility demonstrates the president’s failure in leadership and justice.

Atiku emphasised that the crisis in Rivers State, including the destruction of federal government properties, is a burden that rests on the President’s shoulders. He noted that under Tinubu’s administration, the Niger Delta region has returned to a state of insecurity, undermining the peace and stability established by late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

Atiku reiterated that if the destruction of government properties in Rivers State is attributed to politics, then the President is responsible. He described the punishment of the people of Rivers State for the political conflict between the state governor and Tinubu’s loyalists in Abuja as an affront to democracy, which must be condemned.

Atiku called for measures to ensure justice and peace in Rivers State while avoiding the use of force to suppress opponents.