The Federal Government has defended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, stating that it was necessary to prevent a complete breakdown of order.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) made this statement while addressing journalists at the State House, Abuja on Wednesday.

Fagbemi also announced that funds allocated to Rivers State will be released to the state’s new Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, if he requests them.

This decision comes after President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and lawmakers for six months.

The government dismissed claims that former Rivers Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, played a role in the political crisis that led to the emergency declaration.

Fagbemi defended Tinubu’s intervention, stating that the President acted at the right time to prevent further destruction.