Veteran Nollywood actress, Hilda Dokubo, has strongly criticized President Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, her hometown.

President Tinubu’s decision which was announced on Tuesday, led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the state’s House of Assembly for six months.

Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) has been appointed as the state’s administrator to take charge of its affairs.

President Tinubu’s announcement naturally led to hot takes from netizens including celebrities. Jumping on the bandwagon to react on Instagram, Hilda Dokubo questioned the rationale behind the declaration, arguing that Rivers State had enjoyed peace for two years.

Hilda Dokubo Blasts President Tinubu's Rivers Move — Screenshot of Hilda’s post about President Tinubu

She accused President Tinubu of attempting to take control of the state’s economy because of one man, and likened his actions to themes from George Orwell’s Animal Farm.

She further suggested that every citizen of Rivers State be given Animal Farm as a “palliative,” hinting at political oppression.

The veteran actress also asserted that the situation goes beyond Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who was recently suspended by President Tinubu.

While addressing the press, she stressed her belief that the recent crisis is a ploy to destabilise the state.

“I’ll say it over and over, what is going on in Rivers state is not about Fubara. What is going on in Rivers State is a comeback for the economic soul of the state. Someone wants to grab the economic soul of Rivers State.”
Hilda Dokubo

She went on to highlight what she described as significant achievements under Fubara’s administration, particularly in civil service and infrastructure development.

“This is the first time civil servants have been paid the 13th month of every Christmas. For the first time, civil servants have been paid all their salaries. For the first time, there are roads connecting the riverine communities, it had never happened.”
Hilda Dokubo

Dakubo asserted that Governor Fubara was frustrated at every turn by the government, before this. Her passionate statement resonated with others who shared their opinions on the ongoing crises.

“What’s going on in River state is not democracy. It’s criminality. It’s not worse than what happened in Lagos a few days ago. We all knew all they had settled it.
“We warned everyone before the election, yet some of them stated they would rather have Tinubu southern president certificate forger Pablo Escobar than AA flulani. Unfortunately, the spoiler is now a verified tiktok influencer.”
Hilda Dokubo

Falz Condemns Fubara’s Suspension By President Tinubu

Nigerian musician Folarin Falana, also known as Falz, spoke out in response to Rivers State’s proclamation of an emergency.

Falz responded to the news on his Twitter page, stating that there is no law allowing a president to spend a governor.

He mentioned how a Governor is elected to office and can only be removed by impeachment.

The singer went on to query whether Rivers State is in a state of emergency, or if there is a breakdown in public order or a threat to the Federation’s existence. “Also, is Rivers state at war? Is there an actual breakdown of public order? Is there a threat to the existence of the federation?” he quizzed.

Netizens reacted to Falz’s remarks on River state.

“When he was shouting it his his turn, he meant it is his turn to do anything and everything. He really does not want to be a president. He just wants the power that comes with it.”
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“Good points Falz, but unfortunately, the Country doesn’t respect the rule of law. It’s lawless Allegedly! Disclaimer: I said ‘The Country’; I no mention any country. Toh!”
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