Chetam Nwala Criticizes the Declared State of Emergency in Rivers, Citing Rising Violence and Economic Decline

Activist and lawyer Chetam Nwala has expressed strong concerns over the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, arguing that it has worsened insecurity and hindered the state’s economic recovery.

Nwala reflected on the history of insecurity in Rivers, noting that the most violent period occurred between 2003 and 2008, marked by cult clashes and political violence that led to many fatalities. He pointed out that following President Yar’adua’s amnesty for militants in the Niger Delta, peace gradually returned, with the establishment of the C4i security unit by the Rivers State government playing a significant role in restoring stability and enabling resumed business activities.

He highlighted that tensions resurfaced ahead of the 2015 elections, driven primarily by political interests. During this period, the rise of warlords like Don Wanny led to violence and kidnappings across various local government areas. However, security measures by both federal and state authorities eventually led to the elimination of such criminal elements, restoring some sense of order.

Despite these improvements, Nwala noted that recent political unrest—such as the destruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex and Local Government Secretariat—has been politically motivated but did not significantly reverse the overall decline in crime. Unfortunately, the declaration of a State of Emergency by the federal government appears to have reignited violence and economic hardship, especially in areas like Ahoada.

He criticized the federal government’s approach, accusing leadership of neglecting the security concerns of Rivers residents and prioritizing political ambitions over the safety of the people. Nwala also condemned the violent attack on an illegal Sole Administrator in Ahoada-East, which resulted in the deaths of a youth and a police officer serving as an OSPAC Commander, noting that neither the federal nor state authorities have issued any official response to these incidents.

“The declaration of a State of Emergency was meant to bring peace, but instead, it has led to more deaths and economic stagnation in Rivers State,” Nwala said. “Violence is returning to parts of the state, and the government’s efforts to contain it have been ineffective.”

He called on the federal government to reconsider and revoke the State of Emergency, emphasizing that Rivers State must return to normalcy for its residents to rebuild and prosper. “It’s time for the President to rescind this measure and allow Rivers to heal and move forward,” he concluded