In a bid to ensure peace and protect key national assets, Governor Hope Uzodimma has supported President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
According to Uzodimma, the federal government’s action was necessary to calm tensions and prevent further harm to Nigeria’s oil output and economic stability.
The governor made this known while speaking in Lagos during a media chat.
As the chairman of the National Economic Council’s subcommittee on crude oil theft, Uzodimma said Nigeria cannot afford any disruption to its oil production.
He pointed out that the bombing and destruction of pipelines in Rivers raised major concerns for the country’s economic goals.
“When pipelines were bombed, we had to prioritize safeguarding production,” Uzodimma said. “At a time when we are making efforts to boost output, anything that leads to further leakage or reduces our production quota should not be encouraged.”
His comment follows the ongoing leadership conflict in Rivers State which has caused worry among citizens and investors alike.
The governor said Tinubu acted in his role as the Chief Security Officer of the country, after carefully discussing the situation with relevant leaders and security heads.
Moreover, Uzodimma expressed deep concern over the attempt by the state House of Assembly to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
He said such actions could easily break down trust, divide the government, and create a dangerous path for other states.
“Power belongs to God,” Uzodimma stated.
“If you are meant to be a governor, God will defend you. But when tensions rise to the point of threatening national economic interests, the federal government has a duty to step in.”
This intervention, according to him, was not just about politics but about protecting national unity and keeping the minds of the people and workers at ease.
He explained that the best way to calm the storm was by acting fast and avoiding conflict that may cause destruction or division in power.
Meanwhile, Uzodimma dismissed criticisms that Tinubu favors the South-West region in his appointments.
He explained that leadership positions must be filled by those who can deliver results, not by where they come from.
He noted that Nigeria’s problems are beyond regional claims and should be handled with competent hands.
He applauded Tinubu for his focus on reforms, saying the president’s approach has brought a new tone to governance when compared to past administrations.
On the security situation in Imo State, Uzodimma insisted that most of the violent cases were triggered by politicians who lost elections.
He added that his administration has adopted both hard and soft approaches to return peace, including the use of youth empowerment and infrastructure projects.
In addition, he spoke about the ongoing debate on state police.
Uzodimma said all governors across the country, including the Federal Capital Territory, have agreed on the need for state policing.
He added that the plan is now in the hands of the National Assembly.
