The Explosion That Shook Rivers State: Were Senators Targeted to Justify a State of Emergency? -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

The Thwarted Power Grab: Did an Orchestrated Explosion Near Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt Aim to Justify a State of Emergency, Only to Backfire?

In the midst of political turmoil and the relentless pursuit of power, an event of grave concern unfolded in Port Harcourt. The explosion that occurred in front of Hotel Presidential was not merely an isolated incident; it appeared to be a calculated move, orchestrated by those seeking to destabilize Rivers State and undermine the governance of Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara. This deliberate act of sabotage was intended to justify the call for a state of emergency in the state, allowing external forces to seize control and impose their will upon the people of Rivers.

The masterminds behind this plot were aware that senatorial members of the National Assembly were guests at Hotel Presidential. Their aim was to create chaos and panic, using the presence of these distinguished visitors as a catalyst to amplify their narrative. The plan was to detonate an explosive device near the hotel, hoping to leverage the incident to support their call for a state of emergency. However, their nefarious scheme was thwarted when the individual tasked with carrying out the explosion inadvertently detonated the device prematurely, causing self-inflicted harm.

Governor Fubara, addressing the Senate Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation, shed light on the depth of the conspiracy. He revealed that the explosion was part of a larger plan by detractors of the state, who were using the pro-Wike protest as a smokescreen to advance their agenda. The protest, ostensibly about extending the tenure of former local government chairmen, was in reality a distraction—a means to an end in the broader scheme to destabilize the state.

The governor emphasized that he was not engaged in a personal battle with anyone but was defending Rivers State against those who sought to prey upon its people and resources. He highlighted the importance of standing firm against such predatory actions and protecting the interests of Rivers State and its supporters. Governor Fubara’s resolve in the face of these challenges underscores his commitment to maintaining peace, security, and good governance in the state.

The failed attempt to justify a state of emergency through the orchestrated explosion serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which some individuals will go to achieve their political objectives. It also highlights the resilience and vigilance of Governor Fubara and his administration in safeguarding the state against such machinations. As Rivers State continues to navigate the complexities of its political landscape, the leadership of Governor Fubara remains steadfast in its dedication to the welfare and prosperity of its people.

The visiting senators’ lives were indeed put in danger by the orchestrated explosion near Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt. The intent behind the explosion was to create a sense of chaos and insecurity, which could then be used to justify the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The presence of the senators at the hotel was a calculated part of the plot, as their safety and the potential impact on the narrative were central to the scheme.

Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, addressing the incident, pointed out that the explosion was a deliberate attempt to undermine the state and distract from the governance and democratic dividends being delivered to the people of Rivers. He emphasized that the perpetrators were aware of the senators’ presence and planned the explosion to coincide with their visit, aiming to leverage the situation for political gain.

The governor’s revelation about the plot not only exposed the depth of the conspiracy but also underscored the importance of maintaining vigilance and ensuring the safety of all visitors and residents within the state. This incident served as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Rivers State and the need for continued efforts to secure peace and stability.

The visiting senators, though unharmed, were undoubtedly shaken by the close call. This event highlighted the precarious nature of the political climate in Rivers State and the lengths to which some individuals would go to advance their agendas. Governor Fubara’s response to the situation demonstrated his commitment to protecting the state from such threats and ensuring the safety and security of all those within it.

In a society where honesty is often in short supply, the aftermath of the Port Harcourt explosion could give rise to a predictable pattern of deflection and blame-shifting. It is not uncommon in such situations for various actors to come forward with narratives that serve their interests, attempting to distort the truth and manipulate public perception.

As expected, the police, who are sometimes seen as indirectly supporting the power opposed to Governor Fubara and his administration, might offer explanations that downplay the significance of the event. They might claim that the protest, ostensibly in support of former Governor Wike, was infiltrated by hoodlums or criminals with the intent to discredit the peaceful nature of the gathering. This narrative conveniently shifts the focus away from the planned nature of the explosion and the potential involvement of those orchestrating the protest.

Similarly, former local government chairmen and ousted state assembly legislators, who may have their own axes to grind with the current administration, could allege that it was, in fact, Governor Fubara’s government that was behind the individual who attempted the explosion. Such claims, without credible evidence, are designed to sow confusion and cast doubt on the integrity of the current leadership.

Compromised media writers, perhaps influenced by political or financial interests, might also parrot these narratives, further muddying the waters and making it difficult for the public to discern the truth. Their reports could serve to amplify the voices of those opposed to Governor Fubara, adding to the chorus of disinformation.

However, amidst these attempts to spin the narrative, the undeniable reality remains: the explosion occurred during a pro-Wike protest, and as Governor Fubara pointed out, it was divine intervention that thwarted the plan. This belief in a higher power’s role in protecting the state and its people from harm serves as a reminder that, despite the machinations of those who seek to undermine the government, there is a recognition of a moral and spiritual dimension to the events unfolding in Rivers State.

In the end, the truth of what happened may be obscured by political maneuvering and media spin. Yet, for those who witnessed the events or understand the broader context, the reality—that the explosion was part of a larger plot within the pro-Wike protest—cannot be easily dismissed. The attempts to reframe the narrative reveal more about the desperation of those involved than the actual events.

Governor Fubara, in a revelatory address, exposed what appeared to be the depth of the conspiracy. He disclosed that the explosion was part of a larger scheme by his political adversaries, cloaked behind a pro-Wike protest. The protest, ostensibly for extending the tenure of former local government chairmen, was a cover for a more sinister plot to destabilize the state.

The governor’s words underscored his unwavering commitment to defending Rivers State against those who would exploit its people and resources. His resolve highlighted his dedication to maintaining peace, security, and good governance.

Another layer of complexity was added with a protest purportedly supporting the police. This “Pro-Police” protest was yet another attempt to stir trouble and hinder Governor Fubara’s efforts. The disguised demonstration aimed to create an illusion of widespread support for law enforcement while casting aspersions on the governor’s administration.

Governor Fubara, ever vigilant, recognized the protest for what it was—a veiled attempt to keep his government in perpetual conflict and distraction. Despite these efforts, the governor remained focused on the welfare and prosperity of Rivers State.

In the intricate dance of power and politics, the visit of federal senators to Rivers State unveiled a critical chapter. These representatives, sent to oversee projects, became unwitting witnesses to the relentless challenges confronting the governor. Their presence, intended for privatization and commercialization matters, transformed into a front-row seat to the trials faced by Governor Fubara and his administration.

The senators, now privy to the depth of Fubara’s struggles, witnessed firsthand the attempts to destabilize the state. This placed them in a unique position to relay the gravity of the situation to the president, highlighting the potential disastrous consequences of unchecked actions.

Governor Fubara appealed for their support in the privatization process, emphasizing Rivers State’s stake in these ventures to ensure viability and prosperity. This approach underscored his commitment to economic growth and development, even amid adversity.

Senator Orji Uzo Kalu commended Governor Fubara for his dedication to peace and governance, reflecting broader recognition of his efforts to steer the state towards a brighter future. Kalu’s plea to Minister Wike to cease divisive actions is a powerful call for prioritizing the state’s interests.

The Senate committee’s commitment to work with the state government signifies a willingness to transcend political differences for the greater good. In times of hardship, such unity is crucial.

As the senators return to Abuja, they carry a profound understanding of the battles in Rivers State. Their witness to Governor Fubara’s resilience and determination is a testament to strong leadership. The committee’s support is a step towards a future where democracy can flourish, rekindling the beacon of progress and peace.

The attempted bombing during the senators’ visit to Rivers State revealed a profound psychological and democratic crisis. The scenario highlighted the fragility of peace and the lengths some will go to seize control. Had the bomber succeeded, the repercussions would have been catastrophic. The federal government, under the guise of restoring order, might have unleashed its might upon Governor Fubara, succumbing to the chaos his adversaries sought to instigate.

Yet, in this crisis, a timeless truth emerged: the hens have come home to roost. The architects of chaos, confident in their machinations, found themselves ensnared in their own web of deceit. Their plans, once cloaked in secrecy, now lie exposed, proving that no conspiracy is impervious to exposure.

Governor Fubara, amid adversity, emerges not just as a leader but as a beacon of resilience. His appeal for support in privatizing public assets shows strategic foresight, ensuring Rivers State’s prosperity beyond immediate turmoil. His dedication to peace and governance shines as a beacon of hope in a landscape darkened by conflict.

The call for Minister Wike to sheath his sword and the Senate committee’s pledge to collaborate with the state government are steps toward healing a fractured polity. These actions signal a resolve to rise above power squabbles and forge a future where democracy is a lived reality.

As the senators return to Abuja, they carry the weight of Rivers State’s narrative—not just of attempted sabotage but of the indomitable spirit of its people and leader. The committee’s support testifies to the power of unity and democratic resolve. In this moment of crisis, the hens have come home to roost, but from their ashes, a phoenix of peace and progress may yet arise.

In the wake of the attempted bombing, a timeless lesson has been inscribed on Nigerian political history: those who seek to retain power by any means often find themselves ensnared in a web of private pain, inner distress, and public disgrace, leading even to self-destruction. The indomitable spirit of Governor Fubara and the resilience of Rivers State have weathered the tempest of conspiracy, standing as a testament to the enduring power of integrity and leadership.

Governor Fubara’s unwavering dedication to peace and governance has illuminated a path forward, casting a beacon of hope across a landscape marred by political sabotage. The Senate committee’s support heralds a new era in the battle for the heart of Rivers State.

As the political landscape in Rivers State evolves, the path forward will not be without challenges. Yet, with leadership like Governor Fubara’s, the people of Rivers can look to the future with hope and confidence, knowing their interests are championed by a steadfast leader.

As the truth dismantles the web of deceit in Rivers State, the architects of falsehood are exposed, and their lies crumble under the weight of truth. This moment brings a profound realization: the hens have come home to roost, sowing the seeds of peace and progress. The proverb “the hens have come home to roost” reflects the cycle of justice and accountability, as those who sowed discord now face the consequences. Amidst the ashes of discord, a phoenix of democracy may rise, signaling a future where the people of Rivers State can aspire to a brighter dawn, free from exploitation.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, public policy psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at Weldios University, Nexus International University, and Walden University. John.Oshodi@mail.waldenu.edu