Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has publicly criticized veteran journalist Dr. Reuben Abati for suggesting that President Bola Tinubu's actions regarding the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State are grounds for impeachment. In a video shared on March 19, 2025, Omokri addressed comments made by Abati during a segment on Arise Television, where Abati labeled Tinubu's suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly as unconstitutional and indicative of dictatorial tendencies.

Omokri refuted Abati's assertions, accusing him of political bias and misrepresentation. He argued that the President's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State was a constitutional measure aimed at restoring law and order amid escalating security concerns, including pipeline vandalism by militants. Omokri emphasized that such executive actions are within the President's constitutional powers, especially when addressing threats to national security and governance.

This exchange highlights the ongoing debate over the constitutional implications of the federal government's intervention in Rivers State and raises questions about the balance of powers between federal and state authorities in Nigeria.