ActionAid Nigeria has raised concerns that the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has crippled governance.
The organisation, in a statement, signed by the Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, expressed concerns that key policy decisions like salary payments, and development projects have been stalled due to the power struggle among the political elite.
“Rivers State is on the brink of administrative collapse. Governance has been hijacked by political infighting, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of this reckless power struggle,” said Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria. “The poor cannot afford this crisis. Funds meant for development are trapped in political games, and policies that should improve lives are now in limbo.”
The Country Director expressed concern that the crisis has created uncertainty over the state’s finances, hence the fears over sustainability of salary payments for civil servants.
With state allocations in question, ActionAid warned that thousands of government workers could soon face severe financial hardship, triggering widespread social unrest.
Beyond governance, Action Aid said the crisis has taken a toll on the state’s economy, as investors are alarmed by the instability.
“Political instability has consequences. Money that should be used for new development projects is instead being wasted on managing the fallout of political conflicts. The more instability continues, the less attractive Rivers State becomes to both local and foreign investors,” Mamedu warned.
ActionAid Nigeria called on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to restore governance in the State before the situation spirals out of control.
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The organisation also urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and international watchdogs to investigate political overreach and human rights violations stemming from the crisis.
“If this crisis remains unchecked, it will fuel public disillusionment, heighten social unrest, and create a sense of hopelessness among citizens. Political leaders in Rivers State must remember that their primary responsibility is to serve the people, not to fight for power at the expense of governance,” Mamedu stated.
