Dr. Tom FredFish, a prominent PDP chieftain, condemns President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, blaming party leadership for failing to resolve internal conflicts and calling for decisive action within the party

Dr. Tom FredFish, a key member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom and Chairman of PDP Advocates for Peace and Justice (PAPAJ), has strongly criticized the State of Emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State.

Also read: Atiku criticises Tinubu’s State of Emergency in Rivers, calls it “Political Manipulation”

Speaking in an exclusive interview , FredFish argued that the President’s actions were politically motivated and reflected his bias towards the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.

FredFish accused the leadership of the PDP, including Atiku Abubakar, of failing to take action against former Governor Nyesom Wike, whose anti-party activities, according to FredFish, played a central role in the current unrest.

He stated that Wike’s actions, particularly his failure to resolve disputes with Governor Sim Fubara, had contributed to the political turmoil in the state.

FredFish expressed concerns about the legality and fairness of President Tinubu’s decision, stating that it was based on constitutional loopholes and aimed at gaining political advantage in preparation for the 2027 elections.

He criticized the rapid response to the situation in Rivers compared to the delayed action over similar crises in other states, such as Lagos.

FredFish lamented the PDP leadership’s passivity in addressing the conflict between Wike and Fubara. He noted that the party had failed to take a strong stance against Wike’s actions, allowing the former governor to remain in a position of influence despite his alleged anti-party activities.

FredFish also suggested that Wike saw himself as a “demigod” in the state, unwilling to reconcile with Fubara, whom he saw as a challenge to his authority.

FredFish believes that the All Progressives Congress (APC) cannot take over Rivers State through democratic means, citing the party’s unpopularity in the state and the resistance from the people.

He contended that Wike, in collaboration with APC leaders, sought to cause chaos in the state, including plans to impeach Fubara. FredFish warned that the declaration of a State of Emergency was a reflection of the President’s biased stance on the issue.

FredFish highlighted the far-reaching consequences of the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara. He questioned the legal authority of Admiral Ibokette Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, to conduct local government elections during the suspension.

He also expressed concern about the impact of the suspension on the state’s finances and the potential economic fallout, especially in light of ongoing challenges in the Niger Delta region.

FredFish called for urgent and decisive actions within the PDP to restore order and ensure the party’s future. He demanded that the PDP expel Nyesom Wike for his actions that have violated the party’s constitution, and that strong disciplinary measures be taken against the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who attempted to impeach Governor Fubara.

FredFish concluded that the PDP must take these steps to move forward, asserting that the party’s survival depends on its ability to deal decisively with internal conflicts and demonstrate discipline.