Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has justified President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. According to him, the now-suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara violated democratic principles, necessitating federal intervention.
State of Emergency in Rivers: Tinubu’s Justification
Following months of political instability in Rivers State, President Tinubu, in a national address on March 18, 2025, invoked Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution (1999, as amended) to declare a state of emergency. This move led to the suspension of Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all state assembly members for six months.
The decision has sparked nationwide debate, with critics questioning the President’s constitutional authority. However, Morka, speaking in an exclusive interview on Eagle 102.5 FM, defended the move, stating that opposition voices have ignored Fubara’s alleged anti-democratic actions.
Fubara’s Alleged Undemocratic Actions
Morka outlined various steps taken by Fubara that, according to him, threatened democracy:
- Attempted removal of Speaker Martins Amaewhule soon after assuming office.
- Demolition of the Rivers State Assembly complex, disrupting legislative activities.
- Allegedly blocking financial operations in the state.
Morka emphasized that these actions violated democratic norms, yet opposition leaders, including Peter Obi, remained silent until the federal government intervened.
Security Concerns and National Assembly’s Endorsement
The APC spokesperson further noted that intelligence reports had indicated increasing security threats in Rivers, particularly to critical oil infrastructure, including the vandalization of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP)—one of Nigeria’s most significant crude oil transport routes.
Morka clarified that the National Assembly, with a two-thirds majority across all political parties, later ratified the state of emergency, reinforcing its legitimacy.
Suspension of Governor Fubara: Legal Debates
One of the most contested aspects of the emergency declaration is Fubara’s suspension. Legal experts, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), argue that Section 188 of the Constitution outlines specific steps for a governor’s removal, which were not followed.
Morka countered that the governor was not “removed” but suspended as a temporary measure to restore order. He cited Section 5, Subsection 3 of the Constitution, which prohibits governors from exercising executive powers in a way that contradicts federal authority.
Criticism of PDP Leaders
Morka also criticized Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors and leaders, accusing them of ignoring the crisis for months and only speaking out after the federal intervention. He questioned why they failed to address Fubara’s alleged unconstitutional actions earlier.
Conclusion
The state of emergency in Rivers State continues to generate heated debates over governance, constitutional rights, and federal authority. While the APC insists it was a necessary step to stabilize the state, legal and political opposition remain vocal. The coming months will determine the long-term impact of this unprecedented move.
For more on Nigeria’s constitutional provisions on emergency powers, visit Nigerian Law Reform Commission.
READ ALSO:
Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp:
Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear:
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT MEDIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.