Rivers emergency rule: Reno Omokri counters Abati’s claims on Tinubu’s broadcast

Former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri, has responded to journalist and broadcaster Dr. Reuben Abati, disputing his interpretation of President Bola Tinubu’s comments on governance in Rivers State.

In a widely circulated video on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Omokri addressed remarks made on Arise Television, where Abati suggested that the President was assuming dictatorial powers by stating that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) would make laws for Rivers State.

Clarifying the President’s statement, Omokri argued that Abati had misrepresented its context.

“The President never said that. In his broadcast on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, he made it clear that the new Administrator would not make laws for Rivers State but would have the authority to establish regulations under the supervision of the Federal Executive Council,” Omokri stated.

He emphasized the distinction between laws and regulations, noting that while laws establish a legal framework, regulations function as guidelines within that framework.

Read Also: Rivers crisis: Tinubu has committed impeachable offence — Reuben Abati

Omokri also cautioned against narratives that could lead to public misunderstanding or agitation, urging media professionals to differentiate between analysis and factual reporting.

“It is essential for television stations to clearly separate news from personal opinion so that viewers understand the context of what is being presented,” he added.

The exchange highlights ongoing debates over governance and media interpretation in Nigeria’s political landscape.