Zamfara PDP flays Matawalle amid Rivers crisis

Zamfara State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised Ex-Governor Bello Matawalle for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.

The PDP in a statement in Gusau on Wednesday by its Chairman, Jibo Magayaki Jamilu, described Fubara’s suspension as illegal

“His accusations against Fubara regarding the demolition of public buildings and disregard for the rule of law are hypocritical at best.

“Matawalle himself sacked democratically elected local government chairmen, recklessly demolished public buildings (Gusau Hotel, Farida Hospital), and ran the state unilaterally without holding Executive Council meetings throughout his tenure.

“He also illegally removed his deputy for not defecting with him to the All Progressives Congress.

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“Such actions highlight his disregard for the very principles he now claims to uphold.

“The removal of elected officials under the pretext of emergency rule is unconstitutional and unacceptable, and Matawalle, with his history of similar violations, should be the last person to pass judgment on others.”

Matawalle had expressed his strong support for Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

In a statement on Tuesday issued by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Matawalle stated that this decisive action is vital for restoring stability to the state’s turbulent political landscape.

He asserted that the emergency rule is a necessary measure to address the ongoing political crisis, which has hindered the delivery of democratic governance and the welfare of the people of Rivers State.

Matawalle highlighted the unfortunate demolition of the House of Assembly by the state governor, which has left the state without a functioning legislature for over fourteen months.

The statement added, “This action has contributed to the ongoing political impasse and the inability of the government to effectively serve the people.”

The minister also noted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which reaffirmed the constitutional necessity of a functioning legislature and condemned the governor’s actions as unconstitutional.

Matawalle further expressed concern over recent reports of vandalism and threats from militants, underscoring the need for a unified effort to restore peace and security.

He reiterated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and the protection of vital infrastructure in Rivers State.

It added, “In light of the current situation, the Nigerian Military is on high alert to safeguard government infrastructure and ensure the security of the citizens.

“Any attempts to attack government facilities or disrupt public order will be met with a resolute response from security forces.”