Progressive Governors’ Forum has cautioned President Goodluck Jonathan against declaring state of emergency in some crisis-hit states in the northern part of the country, saying such move would further worsen the security problem in the country.
In a statement signed on behalf of the governors by Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State in Ado-Ekiti, yesterday, any attempt to force emergency rule on these states would be considered as looking for an opportunity to remove the governors at all cost.
“We believe the presence of the Joint Task Force, JTF, in the affected areas is capable of restoring peace if properly coordinated.
“Thus any attempt to declare a state of emergency would be seen as a mere excuse to remove the governors by every means,” the statement said.
The governors therefore urged the President to be consistent and adhere strictly with the combination of dialogue and mediation which it has already set in motion
“The Progressive Governors’ Forum implores Mr. President to be consistent with the combination of dialogue and mediation, which he has already set in motion, and stay action on the planned declaration of state of emergency in the affected states, which we believe would be counter-productive.
“The forum further advised the President to consult widely with religious leaders and leading traditional rulers across the country with a view to solving the problem.
“It is also suggested that the Presidency, in addition to the committee, consults extensively with the leadership of the Christian and Muslim communities.”
