President Bola Tinubu’s announcement of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Governor Simonaliyai Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu has sparked widespread criticism among Nigerians who argue that he lacks this authority. Nonetheless, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice contends that these actions were both lawful and necessary, as they prevented an imminent impeachment that would have ended the terms of Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu prematurely. Instead, they received a six-month suspension.

But in spite of the controversy that the development has generated, Tinubu yesterday swore in former Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, as Sole Administrator of Rivers State.

The short ceremony was attended by the Attorney General of the Federation and Justice Minister, Lateef Fagbemi; the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila; the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, and various other presidential aides at the State House in Abuja.

In a national television address on Tuesday night, Tinubu announced a state of emergency in Rivers State to resolve the ongoing political deadlock between Fubara and the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. These lawmakers were engaged in aproxy conflict representing the interests of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, despite the Supreme Court’s ruling.

When declaring the six-month state of emergency, Tinubu, who criticized Fubara for the situation, stated that the security issues and political strain in the region required him to step in to prevent an utter collapse of law and order.

Following his swearing-in, Ibas addressed journalists and laid out his key objectives for the strife-torn state.

He recognized the difficult conditions that resulted in his appointment, stating, "We are aware of the situation that has brought us to this point."

Highlighting the importance of reinstating law and order within the state, he stated, “To ensure any productive endeavors occur in Rivers State, ensuring peace, harmony, safety, and steadiness must be our primary focus.”

Ibas committed to working alongside all parties involved to reach these objectives, guaranteeing stability for both the residents of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.

"I think for any meaningful activities to take place in Rivers state, that is the utmost task that I have to work together with all other stakeholders to ensure that we bring peace, order and security and stability to the people and government of River State and Nigeria at large," he said.

Ibas, who was born on September 27, 1960, received his commission as a sub-lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy in 1983. He served in multiple command roles before being named Chief of Naval Staff by President Muhammadu Buhari, a position he held from August 2015 through 2021.

Following his retirement as vice-admiral, President Buhari designated him as the Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana, a position he held from 2021 through 2023.

Despite this, Nigerians keep denouncing Tinubu's sole decision to suspend democratic processes in Rivers State, emphasizing the severe repercussions it could have on the nation as a whole.

Amaechi: A Blatant Bid for Control

Mr. Chibuike Amaechi, who previously served as the governor of Rivers State, has labeled the announcement of an emergency rule along with the suspension of the current governor as a blatant move towards seizing control. He further asserts that through this step, the president has essentially undermined democratic processes within his state.

Yesterday, in a statement, Amaechi—who previously served as the Minister of Transportation—highlighted that a governor elected through democratic means cannot have their position revoked via a presidential decree.

He said that the suspension posed a significant threat to Nigeria's Constitution and democratic system.

The statement said: "I unequivocally denounce the blatant and unilateral decision made recklessly by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to suspend and remove the Governor of Rivers State, the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly."

Through this single action, Mr. President has effectively paused and cut short democracy in Rivers State. This undoubtedly breaches our Constitution—the very constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that Mr. President pledged to safeguard.

According to Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, specific procedures for removing a state governor from office are outlined. These processes do not encompass declarations, decrees, or pronouncements made by the president. Hence, he has no authority to claim such powers.

A governor who has been democratically elected cannot have their position revoked through a presidential decree. The president’s action of suspending two crucial branches of the democratic government in Rivers State clearly goes against our constitution, even when considering the interpretation of Section 305 that was referenced in his address.

The illegal suspension of democratically elected bodies in my beloved Rivers State indicates a blatant move to seize control within the state by individuals and groups without such constitutional authority.

The recent developments in Rivers State over the past several months suggest a deliberate and coordinated effort by certain individuals aiming to illegitimately maintain their power and forcibly impose themselves upon the population."

At this unfortunate juncture in our nation’s journey, everyone with good intentions and moral integrity should come forward to challenge this blatant infringement of our Constitution and desecration of our democratic principles. It is crucial for the President to clearly comprehend that this unlawful act will not be tolerated.

Policymakers from all sides ought to voice their concerns; step forward to prevent our country’s slide towards authoritarianism. It falls upon state governors and lawmakers to take action immediately. I implore the National Assembly to dismiss this unlawful act.

"Having served as both a State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF), I am well aware of the potential impact that elected governors across the nation could have in halting this decline and reversing the president’s illegal actions. I applaud those governors who have voiced their opposition to this unjustified suspension," Amaechi stated additionally.

Falana: Tinubu Does Not Have the Authority toDismiss Governors

Famed human rights attorney Femi Falana,SAN, has denounced Tinubu's decision to suspend Fubara, Odu, along with every elected member of the State House of Assembly for half a year, labeling this move as unlawful and against constitutional principles.

In a statement, Falana claimed that the action had no legal foundation within the 320 articles of the 1999 Constitution (as revised).

Noting that Section 305 grants the President authority to implement exceptional actions during instances of civil unrest, he emphasized that these powers do not encompass removing elected representatives or dismantling democratic institutions.

He stated, "During an emergency situation, the Constitution doesn’t provide the President with the authority to dismiss elected governors or disband state legislatures."

Referring to Clause 45(3) of the Constitution, Falana pointed out that although the legislation specifies an “emergency period,” it does not allow for the halting of democratic rule.

The position of governor remains unoccupied solely due to death, poor health, voluntary stepping down, or being impeached. In case this role opens up, the lieutenant governor has to take an oath to assume the duties of the governor.

In the event that both positions are unoccupied, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly assumes the role of Acting Governor for a period of three months prior to conducting a new election.

Falana rejected the notion that a malfunctioning State Assembly warrants dismantling democratic institutions, referring to Section 11(4) of the Constitution. This section permits the National Assembly to intervene in these circumstances—but explicitly prohibits them from removing either the governor or deputy governor.

He cited historical examples stating, "In 2004 and 2006, President Olusegun Obasanjo declared a state of emergency in Plateau and Ekiti states; however, the Supreme Court declined to make a ruling regarding the dissolution of their elected bodies."

In 2013, during the state of emergency declared in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe, President Goodluck Jonathan stood firm against calls to dismiss the governors, thereby adhering to constitutional norms.

In 2021, the Buhari administration contemplated imposing an emergency government in Anambra State; however, they were counseled against dismantling democratic frameworks, with President Buhari ultimately supporting this stance.

Falana referred to the 2024 Supreme Court decision in the case of Attorney General of the Federation vs. Attorney General of Abia State, wherein the court ruled that the dismissal of elected officials and the installation of sole administrators were unconstitutional.

He encouraged Tinubu to restore Fubara, Deputy Governor Odu, and all elected officials in Rivers State without delay.

Falana urged the President to adhere to constitutional procedures in tackling security issues and permit the National Assembly to utilize its authority as outlined in Section 11(4), ensuring adherence to lawful governance.

He cautioned that Nigeria’s democracy should not be compromised through unconstitutional acts, warning of the potential danger in establishing a harmful example that might weaken democratic rule throughout the nation.

Daramola: President Safeguarding Wike's Interests

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria named Olu Daramola has stated that the presidential authority granted under the constitution to proclaim a state of emergency does not encompass the removal or suspension of an elected governor from their position.

He stated that deposing a governor via methods not outlined in the constitution equates to a democratic coup.

As per his view, the president ought to face condemnation for this unjustifiable attack on constitutional rule.

It is clear that he is operating not with genuine intentions but to safeguard the interests of his ally, the FCT Minister, who is the main provocateur behind the conflict in Rivers State.

"This is an arbitrary use of authority—an unjust action of state capture that needs to be firmly resisted," he said additionally.

Sara-Igbe: Tinubu Needs to Explain What Fubara Did Wrong

An elder from Rivers State, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, has stated that President Tinubu needs to clarify for Nigerians why Fubara was suspended.

In an interview with THISDAY, Sara-Igbe stated, “The Rivers State has remained calm, without fights, arguments, or killings. However, the reason for imposing the state of emergency eludes me, which is why I would appreciate it if Mr. President could provide more details on this matter and explain why Governor Wike was not included.”

He mentioned that the single administrator appointed by Tinubu was already making headlines, particularly on social media alongside Wike, questioning, "What exactly are their intentions? We would like to understand."

Should President Tinubu have concerns about issues arising in Rivers State, with Wike being considered among those responsible for these problems, why would he appoint Wike as his minister? It seems contradictory since Wike appears to be exacerbating tensions within the state while simultaneously advocating for a state of emergency.

People from RiversState would likely be curious about the reasons behind Siminalayi Fubara’s suspension. Clearly, this seems like an orchestrated move. The situation does not justify declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State.

If he states that two individuals are engaged in conflict, Wike remains a minister. Why didn’t he warn or suspend Wike instead? Why does he choose to suspend our most tranquil governor within the state? Could this be due to his non-confrontational nature and quiet demeanor?

Obi: Fubara's Ouster Unlawful and Hasty

The former presidential contender for the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has criticized President Tinubu’s decision to remove Governor Similaya Fubara, his deputy, and the legislative body without consultation, stating that this action is not only unconstitutional but also irresponsible.

Through a statement posted on his X account, he cautioned that these moves endangered Nigeria's democratic process, weakened legal standards, and established a perilous example for leadership.

Obi asserts that this choice has thrown the nation back into chaos, reversing the democratic advancements achieved in the last 26 years.

He charged the president with exhibiting a "reckless tendency to disregard democratic principles" by circumventing constitutional procedures and unilaterally imposing a state of emergency in Rivers State.

The proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State is not only hasty but also an evident effort to drive us back into a primitive condition and reinforce the government’s control over everything, regardless of the cost.

The move represents a humiliating stealth implementation of military governance in a crucial region of the nation. This strategy carries significant consequences for Nigeria’s democratic process.

This ruling reflects a skewed understanding of Section 305(1) from the 1999 Constitution, detailing the criteria for declaring a state of emergency.

This clause does not authorize the president to independently dismiss an incumbent governor; such action would directly contravene principles of democracy and sound administration.

This choice fails to adhere to democratic values. Rather, it seems like a preordained move designed to benefit particular interests instead of the overall well-being of the residents of Rivers State and Nigeria.

“I urge the National Assembly and all stakeholders not to permit this to go unchallenged, as it merely exacerbates the culture of impunity that already jeopardizes our democracy,” stated Obi.

APC Leader Accuses Tinubu of Instigating Rivers Crisis Via Wike

The leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka, has criticized President Tinubu’s imposition of an emergency rule in Rivers State, asserting that the president escalated the situation via his Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

"Nigerians and the global audience are aware that the ongoing political dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the group led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, including his cohort of inexperienced assembly members, is actually an orchestrated move by the Tinubu administration to take control of Rivers State through any means necessary," he stated.

Eze stated that in this situation, the president’s position underscored and indicated his previously suspected partiality throughout the entire complex affair.

"Indeed, Mr. President escalated the crisis and promoted this agenda via the FCT Minister and his supporters in the State Assembly,” he questioned, puzzled about whence Tinubu obtained the authority to suspend an elected governor.

Multiple times, most notably in 2013, President Goodluck Jonathan imposed a state of emergency in certain terrorism-ridden states within the northeastern region without replacing their governors. He refrained from doing so as he was correctly advised that this step exceeded his authority and could potentially violate democratic norms, intensify the conflict, and lead to political instability.

The rationale provided by President Tinubu for implementing an emergency rule in Rivers State clearly indicates that his administration prioritizes oil revenue over the well-being of people’s lives in Nigeria.

Ever since the President assumed power in 2023, Nigeria has witnessed an alarming loss of life among its citizens. Hundreds and even thousands have perished due to terrorist assaults, herder violence, starvation, and various criminal activities perpetrated by non-government groups across different regions of the nation, thereby necessitating a state of emergency.

He never actually carried out such actions. However, just threatening an oil facility was enough for the President to respond as quickly as though he waved a magic wand. Thus, in Nigeria, the preservation of oil facilities holds greater importance to the government than protecting human lives.

PDP Governors Claim Actions Were Preplanned

Governors from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) have voiced their concerns and reservations about the suspension of democracy in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.

The PDP governors additionally characterized the suspension of democratic institutions in Rivers as something that would not benefit democracy in Nigeria but rather harm it.

The chairman of the PDP governors, Senator Bala Mohammed from Bauchi State, stated that the suspension of democratic institutions in the region was premeditated.

The PDP governors stated, “We join hands with His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and the citizens of Rivers State during this challenging period in the state’s political journey. Now is when our principle of ‘HELP ONE HELP ALL’ resonates most profoundly.”

The PDP governors also stated, "Anyone who approaches the court of equity must do so with clean hands." Mr. President, your silence regarding the significant part played by your Minister of the Federal Capital Territory in the Rivers dispute serves as gold and facilitates action.

He has essentially operated above the law as you wrote his playbook. We have come to realize this behavior is entirely un-statesmanly, prejudiced, and polarizing.

Consequently, the PDP governors stated, "We firmly assert that this unjustified yet planned assault on Rivers State and the People’s Democratic Party as well as other opposition groups poses the biggest challenge to democracy in our beloved nation, Nigeria. It is a harmful development that will bring no benefit to anyone."

"The path we are considering poses significant risks—it threatens not just our recently achieved democracy, but also intensifies various crises within the country, increases suspicion among people, heightens security concerns, devastates the economy, and undermines both our unity and stability as a nation," stated the PDP governors.

Moving forward, the PDP governors stated, “The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), under the signature of its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has previously voiced significant apprehension regarding the alleged suspension of the Governor, the Deputy Governor, as well as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly by the President.”

The NBA stated their dedication to supporting the Constitution, protecting democratic principles, and guaranteeing that legal norms dominate in Nigeria. They emphasized, "Declaring a state of emergency is an exceptional step that should only be implemented adhering closely to constitutional boundaries."

The PDP governors emphasized that "the ousting of elected representatives under the guise of emergency governance is both unconstitutional and intolerable."

As per Bala Mohammed, "The Forum fully supports the NBA and commits to bringing Section 305 (3) of the Constitution before a judicial review. Such autocratic tactics will not be tolerated and must not prevail."

"The President is urged to heed sound advice and rational voices, acknowledge significant errors and hasty actions, and overturn this terrible and regressive choice while there is still time," the PDP governors said.

Meanwhile, the PDP leaders have maintained that the state of emergency declared in Rivers cannot be justified because it goes against the 1999 constitution; they argue that sovereignty and electoral power belong to the people—the voters themselves.

Following a session with the National Working Committee (NWC), Debo Ologunagba, who serves as the National Publicity Secretary for the party, addressed reporters at a press briefing. He stated that ordering military officials to assume control over civilian administration severely violates constitutional principles.

He added that the action of the President was now hurting the people through the imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

He stated that this State of Emergency declaration had an underlying agenda, considering the year 2027 as significant." He further mentioned that nowhere in the constitution does it grant the president the authority to remove a democratically elected governor from office.

On March 19th, 2025, during their urgent gathering, the NWC thoroughly examined significant matters concerning the APC’s assault on democracy, focusing particularly on two key concerns.

The two main concerns involve the alleged suspension of the democratically appointed Governor of Rivers, Simon Lalonga Fubura, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through an unjustified proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State, as well as the unlawful effort by the APC-led administration to rescind the national headquarters status of the PDP.

Previously, we released a statement opposing the announcement of a state of emergency in Rivers State, and we remain steadfast in our position. The alleged suspension of Governor Fubara is not valid.

Such an action is unconstitutional, unfeasible, void, and entirely unacceptable since no constitutional clause grants the President authority to abolish a local government entity or remove a democratically chosen state governor under any circumstances.

The actions being taken by President Tinubu aim to suspend the 1999 Constitution, dismantle a democratically elected government, and impose an authoritarian rule in Nigeria, which would be a severe breach of Sections 1 (2), 14(2)(a), 180, 217(2)(b) (c), and 305 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as revised).

As stated by Ologunagba, "Subsection 2 under Section 1 indicates that 'The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be ruled, nor shall any individual or collection of individuals seize power over the governance of Nigeria or any portion of it, unless such actions comply with the stipulations set forth in this Constitution.' "

The Constitution does not grant the President the authority to abolish a level of government or to appoint an individual to serve as a State Governor without due process. Additionally, it prohibits overriding the responsibilities of the State Assembly under all circumstances.

NLC, TUC Call for Undoing of Emergency Measures

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), have demanded an immediate reversal of the emergency rule slammed on Rivers State.

In a joint statement signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo, both labor organizations denounced Governor Tinubu's decision for imposing an emergency regime in Rivers State, terming it "rash and unlawful."

They remarked, "This step clearly breaches Article II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (amended), and represents an abuse of presidential authority."

The labor movement stated, "Suspending or removing the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly is not just illegal; it’s an outright attack on democracy."

Although they denounced the move, Organized Labor stated that this step established a perilous example, undermining constitutional rule and jeopardizing the independence of local administrations.

"We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers. Nigeria's democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.

A thriving democracy cannot flourish when democratically elected officials are unjustly dismissed according to the president’s caprices. Such an impulsive action ought to be profoundly troubling for all sensible governors and citizens committed to upholding legal standards.

Consequently, we urge President Sir to rescind this unconstitutional proclamation in accordance with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which explicitly details the legal procedure for issuing and maintaining a state of emergency.

The NLC and TUC warned that since the president holds the country's executive authority, they should demonstrate moderation, adhere to constitutional boundaries, and behave in a way that fosters public trust instead of doubt.

Every choice that threatens national security, economic stability, and democratic governance needs to be reviewed again.

It's Regarding Resource Management, Claims Former Legislator

A previous member of the House of Representatives, Ogbonna Nwuke, has connected the political conflict between the Rivers State Governor, Siniralaya Fubara, and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to issues of resource management.

In his appearance as a guest on a TV program watched in Abuja, Nwuke referred to Tinubu's choice to suspend Fubara and impose a state of emergency as "distressing."

He stated, "The situation in Rivers State resembles a conflict over resources between the current governor and the ex-governor of Rivers State, who now serves as the FCT minister."

Issues arose when legislators, who owe allegiance to the minister, tried to initiate an impeachment process against the governor. Although this impeachment effort did not succeed, Rivers has remained unrest ever since.

I have to point out that the residents of Rivers are taken aback by the announcement of a state of emergency in the region. The statement from the president presents an imbalanced perspective on everything that has occurred in Rivers State.

Emergency Declaration Unlawful, Claims Situation Room

The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has denounced President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State. This includes ousting the democratically elected governor and deputy governor, along with suspending the state legislature for half a year.

The declaration asserted that such acts represented a severe violation of Nigeria's constitutional democracy and posed a significant danger to the rule of law in the country, emphasizing that this situation should not be permitted to continue.

They further stated that “the President’s use of Section 305 from the 1999 Constitution (amended) as grounds for this extreme action is an obvious misuse of legal provisions.”

Although the constitution allows for the proclamation of a state of emergency under particular and severe conditions, it does not empower the president to arbitrarily remove elected representatives or dismantle democratic organizations.

The ousting of a governor and state lawmakers severely undermines the principles of the separation of powers and the democratic rights of the people of Rivers State, who chose their representatives through free elections.

This sentiment is supported by the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Rivers State matter, which was notably cited by the president during his speech last evening.

The political scenario in Rivers State clearly doesn’t align with any conditions warranting a state of emergency.

As per the constitution, legitimate scenarios permitting such a declaration encompass situations like war or foreign invasion, disruption of public order and security, and dangers to the governance of a state when the governor fails to take action, amongst other cases.

Additionally, the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has deemed the announcement of a State of Emergency in Rivers as unacceptable, noting that it fell short of expectations.

In a statement from HOMEF attributed to their Media/Communication Lead and Oilwatch Africa Communications Officer, Kome Odhomor, it was highlighted that the suspension of two governmental bodies along with the designation of a single military administrator signifies an attack on democratic principles. Additionally, this move introduces heightened socio-ecological issues not just for Rivers State but also for the whole Niger Delta region.

The declaration noted: "This step also represents a significant breach of democratic values, legal integrity, and the clear wishes of the populace."

The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) firmly opposes the recently declared state of emergency along with the ensuing military intervention into democratically elected bodies within Rivers State.

While the Niger Delta may not be a hub for insurgency and terrorism, it remains one of the most heavily militarized areas within the nation. This military presence has become deeply rooted due to the necessity of backing oil companies as they continue their exploitative practices from the colonial era with complete freedom.

The history of military rule in Nigeria is notably marked by widespread violence and environmental devastation, leaving deep psychological wounds among the population.

Subjugating any state under military governance, accompanied by the restriction of citizens' liberties, is profoundly troubling. The persistent reliance on military power has been employed to emphasize the concerning stance taken by the administration, suggesting that crude oil holds greater value than ecological and human well-being.

The Executive Director of the Health ofMotherEarth Foundation (HOMEF), Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, statedthatthe president’s comments were concerning, biased,andunpersuasive.

Emergency Rule Call in Osun Unwarranted

The government of Osun State has expressed disapproval over statements attributed to Senator Ajibola Basiru, the secretary of the APC national body, who reportedly advised