A legal expert, Obed Agu, has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the lingering political crisis rocking Rivers State, describing recent developments as inappropriate and counterproductive to governance. During an interview aired on Arise Television on Friday, Agu criticized the ongoing actions of the Rivers State House of Assembly, particularly the continuation of impeachment proceedings, despite efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to politically intervene and de-escalate tensions in the state. According to Agu, the situation raises serious concerns about political maturity and responsibility, especially at a time when federal-level intervention has already been initiated to restore stability. He stressed that rather than easing tensions, the persistence of impeachment moves only worsens the governance climate in Rivers State. The legal practitioner emphasized that many Nigerians have consistently called for a political solution to the crisis, noting that governance suffers when political actors refuse to prioritize dialogue and compromise. Agu acknowledged the constitutional principle of separation of powers, explaining that the executive, legislature, and judiciary operate independently as enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution. He pointed out that no arm of government can legally prevent another from carrying out its constitutional duties. However, he clarified that this independence does not mean absolute freedom without oversight. According to him, the judiciary still has a critical role to play through checks and balances, especially when legal disputes arise from political processes. He explained that while courts may not stop legislative proceedings outright, they retain the authority to review actions taken during disputed periods and issue corrective orders if necessary. This, he noted, is exactly what transpired with the High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, which reviewed the matter brought before it by the claimant, the deputy governor. Agu further noted that prolonged political conflict negatively impacts governance, policy implementation, and public trust in democratic institutions. He warned that continued instability in Rivers State could stall development and distract government officials from addressing pressing issues affecting residents. In his view, genuine political reconciliation remains the most effective path forward, urging all parties involved to respect constitutional processes while embracing dialogue in the interest of peace and good governance.
Two additional members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have formally withdrawn their support for the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, opting instead for political dialogue as a pathway to resolving the prolonged crisis in the state. This development follows the initiation of impeachment proceedings last Thursday, when 26 lawmakers, under the leadership of Speaker Martin Amaewhule, submitted a notice of allegations accusing the governor and his deputy of gross misconduct. Following the presentation of the notice, the Assembly adjourned its plenary sitting until Wednesday, January 15, 2026, a decision that further intensified political tension across Rivers State. Earlier in the week, on Monday, the Minority Leader of the House, Sylvanus Nwankwo, who represents Omuma Constituency, alongside Peter Abbey of Degema Constituency, publicly announced their withdrawal from the impeachment process during a press briefing held in Port Harcourt. Both lawmakers called for calm and encouraged a peaceful political settlement rather than a confrontational removal process. On Wednesday, the momentum toward dialogue continued as two more legislators — Barile Nwakoh of Khana Constituency I and Emilia Amadi representing Obio/Akpor Constituency II — also announced their decision to pull out of the impeachment proceedings. They made this declaration at a separate press conference, aligning themselves with calls for reconciliation. Speaking on behalf of themselves, Sylvanus Nwankwo and Emilia Amadi acknowledged that the impeachment process was initially justified, citing repeated violations of constitutional provisions by the governor and his deputy. However, they explained that recent interventions and appeals had prompted a reassessment of their stance. According to them, interventions by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, appeals from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and consistent calls from concerned Rivers State residents influenced their decision to explore political solutions rather than pursue impeachment to its conclusion. They stated clearly that their decision did not represent the collective position of the House but was based on personal conviction and responsibility. “We speak solely for ourselves and not on behalf of the entire House. We were part of the notice of allegation of gross misconduct because the governor and deputy governor did, in fact, violate provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended. “However, we have received overwhelming appeals from leaders and citizens urging us to pursue a political solution. We are open to dialogue — not as a display of weakness — but as an act of responsibility, maturity, and forgiveness,” the lawmakers said. The legislators further urged Governor Fubara and his deputy to offer clear assurances of compliance with constitutional requirements and to honour previous agreements reached under the supervision of President Bola Tinubu. They emphasized that such commitments would be essential to rebuilding public confidence and restoring political stability in the state. This shift has exposed a growing division within the Assembly, particularly among lawmakers previously aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The emerging pro-dialogue bloc reflects a gradual move away from hardline impeachment efforts toward negotiated settlement. In response to the rising political tension, the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers has also stepped in to mediate. The council has constituted a nine-member mediation committee tasked with engaging all relevant stakeholders and proposing sustainable solutions to the crisis. The committee is chaired by His Majesty, Dr. Suanu T. Y. Baridam, with Eze Barrister Nwachukwu Nnam Obi serving as Co-Chairman. Other members include His Majesty Eze Uchechukwu Isaiah-Elikwu, His Majesty Eze Leslie Eke, His Majesty Dr. Samuel Amaechi, His Majesty Dr. Felix Otuwarikpo, His Majesty Eze Barrister Onyekachi Amaonwu, HRH King Agolia Aboko, and HRH Eze Nwankwo Nwankwo. Barrister Darlington Owiriwa serves as the committee’s secretary. In a statement signed by HRM Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, Eze Oha Apara IV of Apara Kingdom and Chairman of the Council, the traditional rulers urged residents, political actors, supporters of all factions, and social media users to exercise restraint. They warned against inflammatory statements or actions capable of escalating tensions, stressing the need for peace and unity in Rivers State.
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A legal expert and public affairs commentator, Liborous Oshoma, has stated that the alleged violation of an agreement between Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his immediate predecessor, Nyesom Wike, cannot legally justify impeachment proceedings against the sitting governor. Oshoma made this clarification during a weekend appearance on Arise Television, where he offered a detailed legal breakdown of the ongoing political tension in Rivers State. His comments were monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to the legal practitioner, Nigeria’s constitution does not recognize a breach of political agreements as a lawful basis for removing an elected governor from office. He further emphasized that impeachment is strictly guided by constitutional provisions, not political understandings or informal settlements. Courts Cannot Prevent Impeachment Notices In his analysis, Oshoma also pointed out that there is no legal provision empowering courts to restrain lawmakers from serving an impeachment notice on a governor. He explained that impeachment notices are legislative processes, and courts typically avoid interfering unless constitutional violations occur during the process. Background to the Rivers Political Agreement Oshoma recalled that a similar disagreement over the same political arrangement previously led to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State in March of the previous year. He explained that following escalating political tensions, key stakeholders—including the President—intervened. An agreement was drafted, signed by the parties involved, and later authenticated by the President as an executive order. However, upon returning to Rivers State, Governor Fubara was reportedly advised by close aides and political associates that an executive order issued at the federal level cannot legally compel a state governor. This legal interpretation, Oshoma noted, ultimately triggered the collapse of the agreement. It was after this breakdown that political statements such as “agreement is disagreement” began to surface publicly, reflecting the deepening rift between both camps. Illegal Agreements Cannot Be Enforced Oshoma further stressed that not all agreements are legally enforceable, particularly if their content contradicts constitutional or statutory provisions. He explained that if any part of the agreement required Governor Fubara to co-approve or jointly assent to a state budget with Nyesom Wike, such a clause would be outright illegal, since Wike is no longer the governor of Rivers State. Under Nigerian law, a governor cannot delegate or share constitutional responsibilities with a private citizen or former office holder. Therefore, any agreement demanding such action would lack legal standing and cannot be enforced by any court. Political Control and Executed Provisions Expanding on the situation, Oshoma acknowledged that some aspects of the agreement may already have been implemented politically, even if they lack legal force. He cited the current political structure in Rivers State as an example. According to him: These developments, Oshoma suggested, indicate that while the agreement may be politically influential, political dominance does not translate into constitutional authority—especially when it comes to impeachment. Key Legal Takeaway Oshoma concluded that impeachment must be based strictly on gross misconduct as defined by the constitution, not on perceived betrayal of political alliances or agreements. Any attempt to remove a governor outside these legal boundaries risks being unconstitutional.
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Former presidential aspirant and Convener of the YesWeFit Revolutionary Movement, Dr. Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, has appealed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to avoid distractions from political detractors and praise-singers and instead place his focus on good governance for the benefit of the people. Speaking in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Friday, Ikubese stressed that leadership requires firmness and accountability. He advised Governor Fubara to resist the temptation of being influenced by political sycophants or critics whose intentions may not align with the progress of the state. Ikubese further appealed to former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to refrain from interfering unnecessarily in the affairs of Rivers State. He emphasized that such interference could destabilize governance, urging Wike to allow peace and stability to prevail for the collective interest of the people. The activist also raised concerns about the actions of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), who administered Rivers State as sole administrator during a six-month emergency rule. According to him, the administrator failed to provide a proper handover to Governor Fubara after his tenure. Quoting his words: “It is indeed surprising that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd) exited his role after six months of managing the resources of Rivers State without presenting a formal handover to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Transparency demands that he publishes a detailed account of his activities during that emergency period for public record and accountability.” Ikubese reminded Nigerians that while Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) provides for the declaration of a state of emergency, it does not give the president powers to suspend democratic structures in any state. He therefore urged the judiciary to deliver timely judgments on the various suits already filed by concerned stakeholders, including the ongoing case instituted by seven PDP governors, stressing that such rulings are crucial to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy. Ikubese concluded by reaffirming that only a transparent, accountable, and people-centered governance system will ensure peace and sustainable development in Rivers State.
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A senior figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has openly called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to immediately dismiss all political appointees installed by the recently departed Sole Administrators during the governor’s six-month suspension. Governor Fubara officially returned to the Rivers State Government House on Friday, marking the end of his six-month suspension, which was ordered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Despite widespread criticism and strong disapproval from citizens, political stakeholders, and civil rights groups, the suspension remained in force until its conclusion, with the governor resuming duties the very next day after the Sole Administrator vacated office. During the governor’s absence, former Naval Chief Ibok-Ette Ibas, who served as the Sole Administrator, appointed several individuals into key offices within the Rivers State Government. Chief Eze, a respected political voice and former National Publicity Secretary of the now-defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), strongly argued that Governor Fubara must not retain or work with any of those appointees. Eze emphasized that it would be politically dangerous for the governor to inherit appointees from what he described as an “illegal administration.” According to him, Governor Fubara must dismiss all individuals appointed by the Sole Administrator to safeguard his leadership integrity and prevent political manipulation. The APC chieftain went further, warning against any attempt by political stakeholders, particularly former Rivers State governor and current Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to impose commissioners, advisers, or aides on Fubara’s administration. Eze claimed that Wike had earlier promised not to engage in such “devilish acts,” but the governor must remain cautious and proactive to prevent undue interference. Eze also stressed that, in order to restore stability in the Rivers political space, all lawmakers in the State Assembly who resigned or previously worked with Governor Fubara should be reinstated to their legislative positions. Such action, he noted, would help calm political tensions and create a more harmonious working environment in the state. The APC leader further appealed to President Bola Tinubu to provide firm reassurance to Governor Fubara, ensuring that the governor will be fully protected against any form of political sabotage or humiliation. In his words, the governor must be shielded from possible impeachment plots orchestrated by certain “funny members” of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Eze concluded by stating that, should the president fail to offer this crucial assurance, Governor Fubara has no option but to fully exercise his constitutional powers as the executive leader of Rivers State in order to defend his position and authority. This political development marks another chapter in Rivers State’s turbulent governance crisis, highlighting ongoing power struggles among prominent figures and the importance of executive independence within Nigeria’s democratic framework.
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In a significant political development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, appear to have resolved their prolonged political differences following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday. According to reliable information obtained by LMSINT MEDIA on Thursday, President Tinubu hosted Wike, Governor Fubara, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, along with other key lawmakers from the Assembly, at the Presidential Villa late on Thursday night. However, as at the time of preparing this report, comprehensive details of what transpired during the high-level peace meeting remained unclear. Earlier reports from LMSINT MEDIA revealed that Governor Fubara had separately engaged in a discussion with Speaker Amaewhule in Abuja earlier on Thursday, which hinted at ongoing reconciliation efforts. This recent meeting with the President is seen as a strong indication that the political feud between Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara may finally be drawing to a close. It should be recalled that some months ago, President Tinubu had imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State due to escalating political instability, and had consequently suspended Governor Fubara together with other elected public officials in the state. Political observers view this latest round of talks as a critical intervention aimed at restoring stability and harmony within the Rivers State political structure, which has been deeply fractured over recent months.
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Dr. Lelonu Nwibubasa, a former Rivers State Commissioner for Empowerment and Employment Generation, has openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as an outright act of disrespect and marginalization toward the people of Rivers State. According to Nwibubasa, the recent appointment of a non-native—Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey from Cross River State—as the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), is not only unprecedented but also deeply offensive. He expressed his disapproval during a live interview on Arise TV’s Morning Show held on Friday. This reaction comes in the wake of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, reading President Tinubu’s letter to the National Assembly, listing seven individuals nominated for RSIEC roles. The nominees include: Reacting strongly, Nwibubasa condemned the decision, saying it deepens existing tensions and highlights a troubling pattern of replacing native leadership with outsiders. “It’s shocking that even three months after a state of emergency was imposed on Rivers State—ignoring constitutional procedures and widespread opposition—the President has failed to reverse this illegal action,” he said. Instead, Nwibubasa argued, the administration continues to erode the state’s political structure by bringing in non-indigenes. “Where else in Nigeria has any state’s electoral commission been chaired by someone from another state? This is a dangerous precedent.” He further suggested sarcastically that, based on this logic, Nigeria could as well invite foreign nationals from countries like Ghana to oversee its electoral bodies. Nwibubasa described the situation as humiliating and indicative of total disregard for the people of Rivers State. He reminded the public of Rivers State’s significant contributions to the nation’s economy and stability. “This is not just an insult—it’s a complete dismissal of our value and relevance as a people. The National Assembly, despite knowing this appointment is flawed, still validated it.” He said that the silence and complicity of the National Assembly only reinforced the belief that President Tinubu’s administration is sidelining the state intentionally. “This whole process feels like a bad joke taken too far. Rivers people are deeply offended, and I assure you that we’ll pursue all constitutional avenues to challenge this decision.”
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Outrage has erupted among political observers and citizens of Rivers State as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu failed to address the ongoing suspension of democratic governance in the state during the 26th Democracy Day celebration on June 12, 2025. Many Nigerians had anticipated that the President would seize the symbolic occasion to reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara and reintroduce democratic leadership in Rivers State. However, those expectations were unmet, as President Tinubu remained silent on the matter during his speech to the joint session of the National Assembly. Previously, Tinubu had declared a six-month suspension of democratic governance in Rivers State, invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), citing escalating tensions and the threat of breakdown of law and order under Governor Fubara’s leadership. In his address at the time, Tinubu noted that militant groups had openly issued violent threats against perceived enemies of the Governor, whom Fubara allegedly failed to distance himself from. According to the President, the situation had become untenable, prompting the constitutional emergency declaration on March 18, 2025. Despite ongoing federal allocations to a Sole Administrator, residents of Rivers State told LMSINT MEDIA that conditions in the state have worsened, with stalled projects and a deepening governance vacuum. Attempts by Fubara to present the 2025 budget to the Rivers State Assembly were rebuffed, and on March 12, 2025, he was denied access to the assembly quarters. In the midst of this power struggle, Fubara has sought reconciliation with his political godfather, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Sources confirmed that he met with Wike in Abuja on June 13 and earlier visited President Tinubu in Lagos ahead of the Democracy Day celebration. Despite these efforts, the President maintained the emergency rule, drawing criticism from Senator Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West, who argued that Tinubu missed an opportunity to restore democracy. Highlighting the historical significance of June 12, Dickson lamented the President’s decision to sidestep the Rivers issue, stating, “One cannot claim to be a democrat while suppressing democratic rights.” Speaking with LMSINT MEDIA, Chizy Enyi, APC chieftain and Port Harcourt-based lawyer, alleged that Tinubu’s true motive is to secure political dominance in Rivers ahead of the 2027 elections. Enyi claimed Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara was a strategic move to hand control of the state’s political structure to Wike, empowering him to mobilize grassroots support. Enyi added that the Sole Administrator currently in place is filling key political positions with Wike’s loyalists and even organizing local government elections—actions Enyi argues are unconstitutional and reflective of military rule. He pointed to a Supreme Court ruling barring caretaker appointees from running LGAs, asserting that Tinubu’s actions flout that decision. He further contended that had Fubara’s allies been appointed instead, Wike’s camp would have responded with violence. According to him, “The crisis in Rivers is not about governance, but about Tinubu entrusting Wike with political control for 2027.” Despite the President’s absence from Rivers since his election, Enyi said, Tinubu still expects political support in 2027. “Time will judge this administration,” he stated. “Rivers people will not forget.” Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former nPDP spokesperson and APC chieftain, echoed these concerns in a separate interview with LMSINT MEDIA. He alleged that Tinubu’s actions were not aimed at stabilizing Rivers but at marginalizing former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi politically. According to Eze, the emergency rule is a tactical ploy to prevent Rivers from developing like Lagos or Akwa Ibom. Eze accused Tinubu of deliberately crippling Fubara to ensure compliance with a broader agenda. “The emergency rule will persist until Tinubu is confident Fubara will act in line with their political designs,” he said, warning that the move is causing long-term harm to the state. Residents also voiced concerns. Dike Emmanuel from Port Harcourt criticized the halt in infrastructure projects. “No new road works have been initiated. What is the federal allocation being used for?” he asked. Another resident, Finipri Obomanu, disputed the justification for the emergency rule. “There was peace even before Fubara’s suspension. Rivers is not among the states battling daily killings,” he said, citing more severe insecurity in states like Benue and Zamfara. The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide joined the growing calls for the reinstatement of democracy in Rivers. The group appealed to Tinubu to honor the spirit of June 12 and restore both Governor Fubara and the elected lawmakers. The Council emphasized that Tinubu, a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s democratic history, must lead by example and uphold the constitutional rights of Rivers people.
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In a significant development aimed at resolving the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara has initiated reconciliation efforts with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The meeting, held at Wike’s Abuja residence, was facilitated by prominent political figures, including Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, and former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba. Sources indicate that Fubara approached Wike directly, seeking to mend their fractured relationship. An insider confirmed the meeting but refrained from commenting on its outcomes. This reconciliation attempt follows Fubara’s recent discussions with President Bola Tinubu in London, highlighting the urgency to address the state’s political instability. The discord between Fubara and Wike escalated after Fubara assumed office in 2023, leading to a series of events that culminated in a state of emergency declaration by President Tinubu. The president cited governance paralysis and security threats, including pipeline vandalism, as reasons for suspending Fubara, his deputy, and the state assembly members for six months. Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) was appointed as the interim administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period. The political crisis in Rivers State has had far-reaching implications, particularly concerning Nigeria’s oil production. The Trans Niger Pipeline, a critical infrastructure for crude exports, has been a target of sabotage, exacerbating the nation’s economic challenges. The federal government’s intervention aims to restore stability and ensure the protection of vital assets. BUY ANYTHING ON KONG BUY NOW Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Afenifere Condemns Emergency Rule in Rivers State ABEOKUTA – The Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has strongly criticized the National Assembly for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The group asserted that this decision violates the principles of democracy and undermines the 1999 Constitution. Following its National Caucus meeting held at the residence of its late former leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State, Afenifere issued a communiqué condemning the move. The statement, signed by the group’s Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and its National Publicity Secretary, Prince Justice Faloye, described the action as detrimental to Nigeria’s democratic framework. Afenifere’s Stance on National Assembly’s Role Afenifere expressed disappointment in the 10th National Assembly for failing to uphold the democratic rights of Nigerians. The group emphasized that the Constitution requires a two-thirds majority approval from lawmakers before implementing such a critical decision. Instead, they accused the legislators of employing voice votes to bypass constitutional provisions, calling it an unconstitutional and undemocratic approach. The statement read: “The lack of transparency in the legislative process regarding Rivers State’s emergency rule sets a dangerous precedent. The decision disregards constitutional safeguards, weakening the principles of democracy and federalism.” Call for Legislative Accountability The group further demanded that the current leadership of the National Assembly step down, citing a crisis of integrity and failure to uphold the separation of powers. Afenifere warned that continued disregard for constitutional processes could lead to authoritarian rule, comparing the situation to Hitler’s rise in Germany, where democracy was systematically dismantled. Additionally, Afenifere criticized the recent vote of confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio, stating that it reflects an internal crisis of trust within the Senate. A Call to Defend Nigerian Democracy Urging Nigerians to resist actions that threaten democratic stability, Afenifere called on all citizens to demand adherence to the rule of law and prevent the erosion of democracy in Nigeria. The group warned that failure to act now could lead to further political instability and authoritarian governance. For further insights into constitutional law and democratic governance, read more on The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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NBA Calls for Governor Fubara’s Reinstatement, Labels His Removal Unconstitutional The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has once again urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the legitimate leader of Rivers State. The association maintains that Fubara’s removal is a violation of the Nigerian Constitution. Tinubu’s Declaration Sparks Controversy Last Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, followed by the controversial suspension of the governor, his deputy, and all House of Assembly members due to the ongoing political unrest in the oil-rich region. In an unprecedented move, Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, was appointed as the sole administrator of the state, a decision widely criticized as unconstitutional. The NBA swiftly responded, asserting that the President lacks the legal authority to suspend democratically elected officials. NBA: Constitution Does Not Recognize a Sole Administrator Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Afam Osigwe, the NBA President, reinforced the association’s stance, emphasizing that Fubara must be restored to office. “The Constitution does not recognize a sole administrator. We expect the President to restore Fubara back to power, as his removal was unconstitutional,” Osigwe stated. Osigwe also questioned the legitimacy of the newly appointed sole administrator, arguing that the oath of office taken by Ibok-Ete Ibas has no constitutional basis. Legal Experts Condemn Tinubu’s Actions as Excessive and Undemocratic The NBA president further criticized the measures taken to resolve the Rivers State crisis, describing them as overreaching, excessive, undemocratic, and unconstitutional. He likened the approach to using a sledgehammer for a headache, stating that the political crisis requires a political solution rather than forceful intervention. Additionally, Osigwe dismissed the National Assembly’s approval of the President’s actions, arguing that it does not provide legal justification. “The National Assembly’s approval is like placing something on nothing. It does not legitimize the President’s decision,” he added. Conclusion: A Call for Constitutional Adherence As tensions continue to escalate in Rivers State, legal experts and political analysts are closely monitoring the situation. The NBA’s firm stance highlights the growing concerns over executive overreach and the need to uphold constitutional democracy. For further insights on the legal implications of state emergencies and governance in Nigeria, visit the Constitutional Rights Project. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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PDP Declares Tinubu’s State of Emergency in Rivers State Unconstitutional The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed that Siminalayi Fubara remains the Governor of Rivers State, strongly rejecting President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency as unconstitutional and invalid. PDP Challenges Tinubu’s Authority During an emergency National Working Committee (NWC) meeting in Abuja, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, addressed journalists, stating that President Tinubu lacks the legal authority to remove an elected governor, deputy governor, or dissolve the State House of Assembly. Ologunagba condemned the move, stating: ✅ “The suspension of Governor Fubara is unconstitutional and invalid. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) does not grant the President power to unilaterally dissolve a state government.” He emphasized that the State of Emergency declaration violates Sections 1(2), 14(2)(a), 180, 217(2)(b)(c), and 305(2) of the Nigerian Constitution, warning that any attempt to enforce it would amount to an undemocratic power grab. PDP Accuses Tinubu of Bypassing National Assembly The PDP further alleged that Tinubu’s move sidesteps the National Assembly, violating constitutional provisions requiring legislative approval before enforcing a State of Emergency. ? “According to Section 305(2) of the Constitution, the President must seek National Assembly approval before a State of Emergency takes effect. Tinubu’s order for immediate implementation blatantly disregards this provision.” The party warned that this executive overreach threatens Nigeria’s democracy and called on the National Assembly to use its legislative authority to block the move. Condemnation of PDP National Secretariat’s Land Revocation The PDP also criticized the Federal Government’s revocation of the PDP National Secretariat’s Right of Occupancy (R of O), calling it a politically motivated attack on the opposition. ?️ “This land title revocation is part of a broader strategy to weaken opposition forces and silence democracy in Nigeria.” The party urged:? The National Assembly to intervene and halt the unconstitutional takeover.? Security agencies and the military to remain neutral and uphold democratic principles.? Nigerians and the international community to resist this attack on democracy. PDP Reaffirms Support for Fubara The party assured the people of Rivers State that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains the legitimate governor, emphasizing that Rivers was peaceful before Tinubu’s unconstitutional declaration. ? “PDP will resist any unconstitutional takeover through all legal and democratic means. The President must act as a crisis resolver, not an instigator.” Read the Nigerian Constitution on State of Emergency provisions READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Ijaw Stakeholders Reject Rivers State Emergency, Demand Governor’s Reinstatement The Coalition of Concerned Ijaw Stakeholders in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Northern Nigeria has strongly opposed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling for its immediate reversal and the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. At a press conference, Convener Comrade Rosemary John-Oduone, accompanied by 16 Ijaw leaders, denounced the move as a violation of democracy. “The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), which the President and all governors swore to uphold, has been disregarded by Bola Tinubu with the backing of security forces to unlawfully remove the elected Governor of Rivers State,” John-Oduone stated. She further accused the president of attempting to force the governor and state officials into his political party, allegedly to establish a one-party system and secure re-election in 2027. Call for Immediate Reversal The coalition insists that the situation in Rivers State does not justify a state of emergency and demands Governor Fubara’s reinstatement. They also accused Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi of playing a role in the controversial declaration. “The Attorney General of the Federation has facilitated this unconstitutional move, paving the way for this undemocratic decision,” John-Oduone alleged. Calls for National Unity and Political Stability Comrade Emmanuel Deinma, Chairman of the Ijaw Youth Council (FCT & Northern Nigeria), urged President Tinubu to reconsider his decision for the sake of national unity. Similarly, Adam Mabo, President General of the Niger Delta Progressive Youth Leadership Foundation (ND-PYLF), warned that the state of emergency could escalate tensions in Rivers State, urging the president to focus on inclusive governance ahead of the 2027 elections. Tamunokuro Obetoubara, President of Wakirike Bise, cautioned against actions that could destabilize the Niger Delta, reminding Nigerians of past conflicts that were only resolved under late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. International Appeal for Intervention The coalition has reached out to global bodies, including the United Nations, United States, United Kingdom, European Union, African Union, and ECOWAS, urging them to intervene and prevent what they describe as an emerging authoritarian regime in Nigeria. “We call on the international community to act swiftly to protect Nigeria’s democracy and prevent the abuse of state institutions for political gains,” the statement read. Commitment to Defending Democracy The Ijaw leaders have vowed to continue resisting what they see as an attack on democracy. They demand the immediate reversal of the state of emergency in Rivers State and remain committed to holding the government accountable. Read more on constitutional implications of state emergencies READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
