NGO Raises Alarm Over State of Emergency, Political Targeting in Nigeria
The Elevators Initiative for Community Peace and Development has strongly condemned recent political actions in Nigeria, warning that they pose a serious threat to democracy, national stability, and economic growth.
In a statement released on Monday, the organization criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s move to mark the PDP Secretariat in Abuja for demolition. The group described these actions as politically motivated and called on the federal government to prioritize peace and democratic governance.
This is contained in a statement Signed by Mansur Kurugu, the acting executive director of Elevators Initiative for Community Peace and Development.
The group questioned the necessity of imposing a State of Emergency in Rivers State, arguing that while the state has seen political tensions, it has not experienced security conditions severe enough to justify such drastic measures.
“A State of Emergency should only be a last resort in cases of extreme crisis. Using it as a political tool erodes public trust and threatens Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement read. The group warned that destabilizing Rivers State could have far-reaching consequences for national economic growth and investor confidence.
The marking of the PDP Secretariat in Abuja for demolition by Minister Wike has also sparked criticism, with the Elevators Initiative calling it a targeted political attack.
“Democracy cannot thrive if opposition parties are intimidated and suppressed,” the statement read, adding that actions like these weaken democratic institutions and foster an environment of political persecution rather than fair governance.
The organization outlined three key risks associated with the current political climate:
1. Political Instability and Violence – Heightened political tensions could lead to unrest and embolden groups seeking to exploit the situation.
2. Erosion of Democracy – The selective use of state power against political opponents undermines public confidence in democratic institutions.
3. Economic and Social Disruptions – Rivers State is a major economic hub, and continued instability could deter investors and slow development.
The Elevators Initiative for Community Peace and Development has called on relevant authorities to take urgent steps to prevent further political escalation:
Review the State of Emergency – The National Assembly and civil society groups should scrutinize the decision to ensure it is not politically motivated.
End Political Targeting – The Federal Government must demonstrate neutrality in handling political disputes.
Encourage Dialogue – Political leaders should engage in dialogue rather than resorting to extreme measures.
Ensure Civil Society Oversight – Independent groups and the media must hold political leaders accountable.
The organization urged all Nigerians, political actors, and institutions to resist political oppression and work towards a democracy where governance serves the people, not political interests.
