Kenneth Okonkwo Accuses Tinubu of Playing a Role in Initiating Rivers Political Crisis

Nollywood veteran turned politician Kenneth Okonkwo has accused President Bola Tinubu of being responsible for the crisis in Rivers State that led to a six-month state of emergency declaration.

Okonkwo made the claim on Monday during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Sunrise Daily’.

He noted that the Rivers State governor had previously assured efforts for peace and reiterated his commitment even after the Supreme Court ruling, which the governor began to implement immediately.

Okonkwo questioned the justification for the state of emergency, arguing that there was no real crisis in Rivers State, only a political lockdown.

He contrasted the situation in Rivers with other regions facing severe challenges, saying: “Over 200 people were killed in Benue State, Boko Haram continues to attack our officers and citizens, and over 500 people died from natural disasters in Niger State, yet no extraordinary measures were taken there.”

He criticized the declaration in Rivers State as unwarranted, calling it “most annoying” and accusing President Tinubu of using the Supreme Court judgment as a pretext for the emergency.

Describing the situation as “bewitchment,” Okonkwo accused the APC of moving from deception to manipulation.

He concluded by asking, “How many people were killed or maimed in Rivers State?”—implying the crisis was artificially created by President Tinubu.