Emergency Rule In Rivers: FG Vs. Governors

The Federal Government, through the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, clarified that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, played no role in the political unrest in Rivers State. The crisis, which led to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency, has intensified debates between the federal authorities and state officials.

Federal Allocations and Leadership Transition

The AGF emphasized that Rivers State’s federal allocations, previously withheld due to the turmoil, would be released upon request to the newly appointed sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (retd.), who was assigned by President Tinubu to oversee the state’s affairs.

The government justified the emergency rule, stating it was essential to prevent further deterioration. The AGF accused the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, of allegedly influencing militants to attack critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines.

Clarifying Wike’s Involvement

Addressing speculations, the AGF dismissed claims that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had orchestrated the crisis. He stated that Wike was not responsible for the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly, the budget impasse, or the controversial appointment process of commissioners.

Legal interpretations from the Supreme Court highlighted constitutional violations committed by Governor Fubara, further legitimizing the emergency rule. The AGF asserted that the governor’s actions destabilized governance, leading to the need for federal intervention.

Root Cause of the Political Crisis

The political turmoil in Rivers State traces back to late 2023 when governance disputes escalated. The AGF noted that Governor Fubara allegedly sidelined the legislative process, operating with only a few lawmakers instead of the full House of Assembly. This led to legal battles, with multiple Supreme Court rulings underscoring the governor’s breaches of constitutional provisions.

One of the most critical findings was Fubara’s purported attempt to preempt impeachment by undermining the legislature. The AGF likened the governor’s actions to those of a despot, arguing that they rendered governance in the state ineffective.

Security Concerns and Oil Pipeline Vandalism

Security issues played a significant role in the federal government’s decision. The AGF alleged that Governor Fubara tacitly encouraged militant groups, failing to dissuade them from acts of sabotage. A week after he allegedly signaled his support, vital oil infrastructure was attacked, reducing Nigeria’s oil production output, which had previously increased under Tinubu’s administration.

Nigeria’s economy heavily depends on oil revenue, and any threats to its infrastructure impact national stability. The AGF stated that those who sabotage the oil industry are not just enemies of Rivers State but of Nigeria as a whole.

Implications and National Assembly’s Role

President Tinubu’s emergency declaration awaits National Assembly approval, requiring a two-thirds majority vote. Critics argue that the decision was rushed, but the AGF countered that delaying action could have worsened the situation.

The declaration also serves as a warning to other states, signaling that the federal government is prepared to take strict measures to prevent governance failures and security breakdowns.

What Lies Ahead for Rivers State?

With the emergency rule in place, Rivers State faces a transitional phase under the appointed administrator. The move sets a precedent for federal intervention in state governance during crises. As the National Assembly deliberates on the matter, political stakeholders remain divided on whether the action was necessary or excessive.

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