Introduction The suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers by President Bola Tinubu has sparked intense debates across Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region. Many stakeholders argue that Tinubu’s decision was unconstitutional, while others see it as necessary to prevent further crisis.
Tinubu Declares State of Emergency in Rivers State
On March 18, 2025, after a security meeting, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly members. Citing prolonged political unrest and security threats, Tinubu emphasized the need to restore order in the state.
In his address, Tinubu noted that Rivers State had been in political deadlock since the crisis erupted. He pointed out that Governor Fubara had demolished the House of Assembly complex without providing an alternative venue, further exacerbating the situation.
Supreme Court Ruling and Its Implications
The Supreme Court, in its ruling on February 28, 2025, criticized Governor Fubara for unconstitutional actions, stating:
“A government cannot be said to exist without one of the three arms that make up the government under the 1999 Constitution. The governor’s actions have effectively collapsed the legislative arm, creating a vacuum in governance.”
The court further reinstated 27 defected lawmakers and mandated the immediate passage of an appropriation bill, which had yet to be implemented.
Militant Activities and Security Threats
Security reports revealed that militants detonated two oil pipelines, fueling suspicions that the crisis was escalating into economic sabotage. The attacks provided grounds for Tinubu’s emergency declaration, raising concerns about potential disruptions to Nigeria’s oil sector.
Political Power Struggle: Wike vs. Fubara
Former Governor Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has been at odds with Governor Fubara. Many believe Tinubu’s intervention aligns with Wike’s interests, as he played a significant role in Fubara’s election. Analysts speculate that Wike aims to reclaim political control of Rivers State, possibly positioning the All Progressives Congress (APC) for dominance in 2027.
Reactions from South-South Leaders and Stakeholders
South-South stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions:
- HRH Anabs Sara-Igbe (PANDEF Former Spokesman): “Fubara complied with the peace terms, but the lawmakers refused to withdraw their cases. Is the President unaware of this?”
- Prof. Akenuwa Obarogie (Edo Unity League): “The peace accord was one-sided, favoring Wike over Fubara.”
- HRH Bubaraye Dakolo (Bayelsa Traditional Ruler): “Tinubu’s intervention failed to address the root cause of the crisis.”
- Joseph Ambakederimo (South-South Reawakening Group): “The President acted in good faith to restore order.”
Demolition of the Rivers State Assembly: Perspectives from Various Stakeholders
Prof. Obarogie
The decision to demolish the Rivers State House of Assembly was irresponsible, extreme, and unjustifiable. In a more organized political environment, the Governors Forum and the National Assembly would have issued a deadline for its reconstruction.
HRM Dakolo
The issue of demolishing the House of Assembly is not a straightforward one. Since the executive branch initially funded its construction, Governor Fubara had the discretion to refurbish or rebuild it if deemed necessary. He considered the situation and acted accordingly. Other government buildings, such as the Vice President’s residence, have also undergone costly renovations, making this case no different. The key question remains: Are the people of Rivers State protesting? If they are not, why should outsiders be more concerned? The governor was elected by the people, and if they oppose his actions, they have the power to act accordingly. Those criticizing his decision may have ulterior motives, particularly legislators who are allegedly resisting because they are financially affected.
Ambakederimo
The demolition of the House of Assembly was an abuse of power and a waste of public resources. If the structure was no longer viable for legislative use, it could have been repurposed instead of being destroyed. While this action does not justify removing the governor from office, it was still a significant misstep.
Amaebi
The controversy surrounding the demolition is unnecessary. As the state’s executive leader, Governor Fubara has the authority to undertake construction projects, including demolishing and rebuilding government structures as needed. Similar actions have been taken at the federal level without backlash.
Gbemre
Governor Fubara’s decision to demolish the legislative building was a clear abuse of power. Being the governor does not entitle him to dismantle an institution representing a separate branch of government. The absence of proper communication with the legislators and the appointment of officials without the Assembly’s approval raise constitutional concerns. Those supporting his actions are overlooking the broader implications for governance and the rule of law.
Lenu
The reconstruction of the legislative building is progressing, with the new structure already approaching the lintel stage. The reality of the construction can be verified by visiting Moscow Road, where the Assembly Complex is located.
Governor Fubara and Militant Threats
HRM Dakolo
It is not within the governor’s jurisdiction to denounce militants. Security matters fall under federal agencies such as the police, military, and other security bodies. Expecting the governor to take sole responsibility is unreasonable.
Prof. Obarogie
Militants often have varying allegiances, making it difficult for any governor to maintain full control over them. However, Governor Fubara failed to condemn their threats, which fuels speculation that these threats and subsequent attacks on pipelines were orchestrated to justify a state of emergency.
Ambakederimo
The governor’s rhetoric has not helped the situation. While some militants are upset over their exclusion from security contracts, their grievances should be addressed through engagement rather than increased militarization. Collaborating with Community Development Committees in oil-producing regions could offer a long-term solution.
Amaebi
The responsibility for handling threats to national infrastructure, including oil pipelines, falls under federal security agencies. It is not within a state governor’s authority to single-handedly manage these issues.
Suspension of Governor Fubara and Other Officials
HRM Dakolo
President Tinubu should not allow himself to be influenced by biased interests. The Attorney General’s stance on this matter is concerning, as he should act as a legal authority for the entire nation rather than serving personal agendas. The president’s decision to suspend an elected governor is highly questionable. Nigeria is not a dictatorship, and removing a governor should follow constitutional procedures, not unilateral decisions.
Prof. Obarogie
The presidential intervention in Rivers State appears to favor former Governor Nyesom Wike. The approach taken has not effectively resolved the crisis but instead exacerbated tensions.
Ambakederimo
Legal experts argue that the president lacks the constitutional authority to suspend an elected governor. However, this issue can still be resolved through strategic political negotiations. Influential figures who have the president’s ear could mediate a resolution.
Amaebi
The decision to suspend Governor Fubara is unconstitutional and represents a dangerous precedent. It mirrors authoritarian rule rather than democratic governance. The president’s actions appear politically motivated, particularly with the 2027 elections in mind.
Intervention by PANDEF
Prof. Obarogie
The President may have perceived PANDEF as siding with Governor Fubara against the 27 lawmakers and their political allies. Consequently, his engagement with them lacked openness, treating them more as part of the conflict rather than neutral mediators.
Overall, the political tension in Rivers State remains complex, with differing opinions on governance, constitutional authority, and political maneuvering.
Future Implications and Possible Outcomes
With an interim administrator now in charge of Rivers State, political analysts predict Fubara may eventually negotiate a settlement with Wike to regain his position. The bigger question remains: Is this a strategic move to shift Rivers State into APC control ahead of 2027?
Conclusion
The Rivers State crisis underscores deeper political rifts within Nigeria’s governance structure. While some see Tinubu’s intervention as a necessary step to stabilize the state, others view it as a calculated political maneuver. Only time will reveal how the political landscape will evolve.
Read more on Nigeria’s political crises here
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.