CurrentReport Blog The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Benue State, Ibrahim Idoko, has called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to take proactive measures to prevent the orchestration of a potential state of emergency in the state. Speaking to journalists on Friday during a Town Hall meeting organized by the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria in Makurdi, Idoko raised alarms over alleged schemes by some individuals to destabilize the state and justify the declaration of a state of emergency.
Idoko condemned the recent state of emergency imposed in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state assembly. He warned that similar moves might be underway in Benue and urged Governor Alia to act swiftly to avert a crisis. “Some individuals have started entertaining similar ideas in Benue State,” Idoko remarked, adding that he believes the governor will take the necessary steps to manage the situation.
Highlighting the negative impact of such measures on Nigeria’s democracy, Idoko expressed disappointment with the president’s decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers, calling it a dark spot in the nation’s democratic experience. He warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, potentially influencing young military officers and jeopardizing Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Despite his concerns, Idoko remained confident in the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy. “Nigeria has matured, and our democracy is here to stay. The international community is watching us, and we have become a beacon of democracy in West Africa,” he said.
Idoko also urged President Tinubu to ensure that the state of emergency in Rivers State is limited to the approved six-month period by the National Assembly, with the restoration of the democratically elected government in the state once the period expires. “I pray that the six months pass quickly,” he said, stressing that Governor Fubara should be allowed to resume his duties without interference.
Additionally, Idoko called for heightened security in Rivers State, given its volatile nature, and expressed hope that both sides in the state would work together after the state of emergency period ends.
