The National Democratic Coalition (NADECA), a coalition of over 100 pro-democracy groups in Africa, has commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas for their leadership in securing the National Assembly’s endorsement of the state of emergency in Rivers State.

In a statement signed on Thursday evening by Dr. Chukwuma Eze, President-General of NADECA, the coalition said it took 72 hours to critically assess the situation before arriving at its position, unlike other groups that rushed to conclusions.

NADECA described President Bola Tinubu’s decision as a necessary intervention to restore order and governance in Rivers State.

The coalition insisted that without the emergency measures, the crisis in Rivers could have escalated beyond control, further threatening democratic stability in the country.

NADECA also took a swipe at critics of the emergency rule, accusing them of politicising a matter of national security and governance.

“After a thorough and objective review of the crisis in Rivers State, we are convinced that President Tinubu acted in the best interest of democracy and national stability. The state of emergency was not only justified but essential to reset the governance structure in Rivers and prevent a total breakdown of law and order,” the statement said.

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“We commend Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for rising to the occasion and ensuring that the National Assembly played its constitutional role in endorsing this decisive action. Their leadership at this critical moment reassures Nigerians that our democracy remains strong.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals and groups are deliberately twisting the narrative to suit their interests. The truth remains that Rivers State was on the brink of chaos, and it required urgent intervention. Those who claim to be defenders of democracy should ask themselves if democracy can thrive in an environment of lawlessness.”

NADECA called on all stakeholders, including political leaders and civil society groups, to support efforts to stabilise Rivers State and ensure that governance is restored in a manner that benefits all residents.

“Nigeria cannot afford to allow political crises to fester to the point where they threaten national security. The President has acted, the National Assembly has backed him, and now it is time for all well-meaning Nigerians to focus on ensuring that peace and development return to Rivers State,” NADECA stated.

“We remain committed to defending democracy and the rule of law. We will continue to monitor developments in Rivers and across Nigeria to ensure that constitutional order is upheld.”