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: 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: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Article: Governor Siminalayi Fubara has vacated the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, along with his family and security team, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state. Reports confirm that Fubara left the government residence on Wednesday morning, a day after his suspension alongside Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The suspension, announced during a national broadcast by President Tinubu, is set to last for an initial period of six months. In his address, President Tinubu stated: “By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months.” As part of the emergency directives, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator responsible for overseeing governance in Rivers State until stability is restored. Mixed Reactions to the Emergency Rule The emergency rule in Rivers State has triggered nationwide debates, with opinions sharply divided. While some view it as a necessary step to restore order, others argue that it represents an excessive use of executive power, undermining democratic principles. According to political analysts, the suspension of an elected governor and lawmakers raises concerns about the balance of power and the federal government’s role in state affairs. A reputable political affairs journal, Premium Times, highlights the constitutional implications of the decision, questioning whether it aligns with Nigeria’s democratic framework. Political Implications and Future Prospects The unfolding situation in Rivers State could set a precedent for federal interventions in state governance. Political stakeholders are calling for a legal review of the emergency rule, with some advocating for the restoration of the state’s duly elected government. As tensions rise, citizens and observers alike await further developments, particularly regarding the legal and constitutional challenges that may arise in response to the state of emergency. Read more on the constitutional debate surrounding the emergency rule READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
