Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has voiced strong opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly members. In a statement released on Wednesday, Amaechi denounced the move as unconstitutional and a direct assault on Nigeria’s democratic principles. He urged the National Assembly, governors, and Nigerians to oppose what he described as an illegal power grab that undermines the country’s Constitution. Violation of Constitutional Provisions Amaechi accused President Tinubu of exceeding his constitutional authority by suspending elected officials. Citing Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, he stressed that a governor can only be removed through an impeachment process, not by executive order. “With this singular move, Mr. President has technically suspended democracy in Rivers State. This is a blatant violation of the Constitution, the very document he swore to uphold,” Amaechi stated. Furthermore, he questioned the use of Section 305, which permits the President to declare a state of emergency, arguing that it does not provide for the dissolution of an elected government. Call for Resistance Against Political Takeover Amaechi alleged that certain political forces were orchestrating a takeover in Rivers State, urging lawmakers, governors, and Nigerians to reject the move. “At this critical juncture in our national history, all well-meaning Nigerians must stand against this audacious abuse of power. This illegality must not stand,” he emphasized. The former Rivers State Governor, who previously chaired the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), praised governors who have spoken against the suspension and encouraged others to do the same. He warned that failure to resist could set a dangerous precedent leading Nigeria toward totalitarian rule. A Divisive Decision Amidst Political Tensions The suspension of Governor Fubara has generated mixed reactions across Nigeria. While some believe it is necessary to restore order in Rivers State, critics like Amaechi argue that it sets a dangerous precedent for democracy. This development raises concerns about the balance of power between the executive and state governments. As the political crisis unfolds, Nigerians await the next steps from the National Assembly and judiciary in addressing the constitutional implications of Tinubu’s decision. For more insights on Nigeria’s political developments, read this analysis by The Guardian. Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
A heated confrontation unfolded in the House of Representatives on Wednesday as lawmakers engaged in a fiery debate over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. The dispute, which took place shortly before the legislative session commenced, saw Marie Ebikake and Blessing Amadi exchanging verbal attacks over the controversial decision. Ebikake, representing Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency of Bayelsa, and Amadi, representing Port Harcourt Two Federal Constituency of Rivers State, engaged in a shouting match, pointing fingers at each other as tensions flared. The disagreement stemmed from President Tinubu’s announcement, which cited prolonged governance paralysis and unresolved political turmoil in the state. President Tinubu’s Declaration and Justification In a nationwide broadcast, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the instability in Rivers State. He emphasized that the crisis had stalled governance and deprived citizens of effective leadership. Tinubu justified his decision, stating: “I feel greatly disturbed by the political crisis in Rivers. The state has been at a standstill, and the people have been deprived of good governance. Fourteen months after Governor Fubara demolished the House of Assembly, it remains unbuilt. Many Nigerians have intervened, just as I did, but their efforts have been to no avail.” Citing the urgent need to restore order, the President announced the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, he appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as the interim administrator to oversee governance in Rivers State. Escalating Tensions in Rivers State The emergency declaration followed a series of alarming incidents, including an explosion at an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. Earlier that day, a major fire outbreak was reported on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), heightening fears of escalating unrest in the state. Political Fallout and Backlash The emergency rule has sparked outrage among opposition figures, legal experts, and socio-political groups who argue that the decision is unconstitutional. Many critics assert that suspending an elected governor and lawmakers without due legislative process undermines Nigeria’s democracy. PANDEF (Pan Niger Delta Forum) has vowed to release an official stance after analyzing the situation. Similarly, political analysts believe this move may set a precedent for federal intervention in state affairs. External Insight and Analysis Experts warn that the crisis could impact the stability of the Niger Delta region, an area crucial to Nigeria’s oil production. Read more insights from The Guardian on the political dynamics unfolding in Rivers State. Conclusion As the political landscape in Rivers State remains volatile, stakeholders are calling for dialogue to resolve the crisis. The confrontation in the House of Representatives highlights the deep divisions surrounding the emergency declaration. With growing public outcry and potential legal battles ahead, all eyes remain on how the situation will unfold in the coming weeks. 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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Rivers State Crisis: Communities Warn of Potential Guerrilla Warfare Less than 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, oil and gas-producing communities in the Niger Delta have raised concerns that this decision could ignite guerrilla warfare in the region. The alarm follows the recent explosion on the Trans-Niger oil pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, an incident believed to be linked to ex-militants disgruntled over pipeline surveillance contract exclusions. Political Instability Could Escalate Economic Crisis Speaking with Vanguard, Joseph Ambakaderimo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Community Development Committees (CDC) of Niger Delta Oil and Gas-Producing Areas, warned that the political turmoil in Rivers State could severely impact Nigeria’s economy if not handled with diplomacy. He criticized the president’s decision, stating, “Declaring a state of emergency under these circumstances is premature and could provoke a larger crisis. If this spirals into guerrilla warfare, the economic damage will be enormous.” Ambakaderimo further revealed that certain ex-militants, previously engaged in pipeline surveillance, feel neglected and may be resorting to sabotage to draw attention to their plight. Urgent Need to Reassess Pipeline Surveillance Contracts He emphasized that the federal government must immediately review the surveillance contracts to promote inclusivity and avoid further sabotage. “With only two out of six NLNG Train operations currently functional, the country is already facing a gas shortage. If crude oil production is similarly affected, the economy will suffer drastic consequences,” he noted. He recommended that the government engage the CDC to mediate between stakeholders and ensure equitable contract distribution. Governor Fubara Urged to Seek Presidential Dialogue Despite the emergency declaration, Ambakaderimo encouraged Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to seek diplomatic dialogue with President Tinubu through respected statesmen to facilitate a reversal of the decision. He also condemned the 27 state lawmakers for ignoring a Supreme Court ruling while focusing on political maneuvering to impeach Governor Fubara, allegedly at the behest of political leader Nyesom Wike. “Governor Fubara has attempted to uphold the court’s judgment, even at personal risk, while lawmakers prioritize political interests. They rejected the governor’s budget proposal and acted against judicial directives,” he asserted. State of Emergency Threatens Oil Production Stability Ambakaderimo reiterated that escalating political conflicts could reduce daily crude oil output, posing significant economic threats. “A well-thought-out approach is needed. Reversing the emergency decision would demonstrate the administration’s commitment to national stability and economic growth,” he concluded. Vanguard News on Rivers State Crisis 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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The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has triggered intense reactions across Nigeria. Various stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), legal analysts, political figures, and groups such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Ijaw Youths, have expressed divergent opinions. While many have criticized the move, others see it as a strategic intervention in the unfolding political turmoil. Hon. Obidike Chukwuebuka, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has praised President Tinubu’s decision, stating that Governor Siminalayi Fubara should be grateful for the intervention. According to Obidike, Tinubu’s move effectively prevented an imminent impeachment that could have led to Fubara’s removal from office. In a statement shared with Vanguard on Wednesday, Obidike highlighted Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the President to declare a state of emergency, thereby suspending the authority of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and other state government structures. He argued that this legal provision granted Tinubu the authority to stabilize Rivers State’s governance during the crisis. Although reports of an impeachment plot against Governor Fubara remain unverified, Tinubu’s intervention has undoubtedly reshaped the state’s political dynamics. His efforts to foster peace and cooperation were further demonstrated in a recent high-level meeting involving Fubara and key stakeholders. The President reportedly emphasized the need for unity and political stability to ensure effective governance in Rivers State. “As developments continue to unfold, it is evident that Governor Fubara’s political trajectory is closely linked to President Tinubu’s influence,” Obidike remarked, suggesting that the intervention could have long-term ramifications for the state’s governance. Read more about Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution and 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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The Rivers State House of Assembly has officially issued a misconduct notice against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. This development, which took place on March 16, aligns with constitutional provisions governing the state’s legislative oversight. Rivers Assembly Moves Against Governor Fubara and Deputy In a formal declaration, the lawmakers cited Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended) as the legal framework underpinning their action. According to the statement from the Assembly, the deputy governor, Professor Ngozi Odu, is particularly accused of gross misconduct in the execution of her official duties. Part of the notice stated:“In compliance with Section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and other extant laws, we, the undersigned members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, hereby forward to you a Notice of Gross Misconduct by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State in the performance of the functions of her office.” This move signifies heightened political tension in Rivers State, as lawmakers exercise their constitutional mandate in scrutinizing executive actions. Constitutional Implications and Political Reactions The issuance of the notice has sparked discussions among political analysts and stakeholders. Experts argue that this development could lead to a prolonged political crisis if not carefully managed. According to Nigeria’s legal framework, such accusations, if substantiated, could set off impeachment proceedings. External Perspective and Legal Framework For a broader understanding of Nigeria’s constitutional provisions on gubernatorial impeachment, visit Nigeria’s National Assembly Official Website. This source provides in-depth legal references on executive accountability and legislative oversight. Stay updated on this developing story and other political events by following authoritative sources like Premium Times for verified reports on Nigeria’s political landscape. 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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The political tension in Rivers State has escalated as the All Progressives Congress (APC) calls for the resignation or impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The party insists that the governor has allegedly committed numerous impeachable offenses, as highlighted in a recent Supreme Court ruling. APC Declares No Need for Further Investigation Addressing the press in Port Harcourt on Monday, Rivers State APC Chairman, Tony Okocha, emphasized that there is no necessity for the State House of Assembly to form a seven-man panel to probe the governor’s alleged misconduct. “The Supreme Court has already unveiled these allegations,” Okocha stated. Two Choices for Governor Fubara According to Okocha, Governor Fubara has two options—either step down voluntarily or face impeachment proceedings initiated by the legislative body. “These are the only available alternatives left for Sir Siminalayi Fubara,” he reiterated. Political Implications of the Crisis This development intensifies the already volatile political atmosphere in Rivers State, raising concerns about governance and stability in the region. Analysts believe the outcome of this political standoff could significantly impact the state’s administration. For further insights, read an in-depth analysis on the political crisis in Rivers State on BBC News. BBC News for additional credibility and insights. 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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PORT HARCOURT – Tensions have intensified in Rivers State as the Niger Delta Rescue Movement (NDRM), a militant group, issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate release of the state’s allocation. Failure to comply, they warned, could result in a complete shutdown of oil production in the region. The militant group also called on non-indigenes residing in Rivers State to leave for their safety, citing an imminent escalation of hostilities. Militants Warn of Oil Disruption NDRM emphasized that unless the Federal Government and all stakeholders involved in the political turmoil take necessary actions to de-escalate the crisis, they would not hesitate to disrupt national oil production. The warning follows the Supreme Court’s ruling last Friday, which upheld a lower court’s decision to withhold Rivers State’s allocation until the House of Assembly, with Martin Amaewhule as Speaker, is fully constituted. Following the ruling, Speaker Amaewhule on Monday gave Governor Siminalayi Fubara a 48-hour deadline to present the 2025 budget to the Assembly. This ultimatum expired at midnight on Wednesday. House of Assembly’s Controversial Directives In response to the budget deadline lapse, the Amaewhule-led House instructed the governor to dismiss all commissioners and political appointees and submit a new list of nominees for screening. A video circulating on social media features approximately eight armed militants wielding AK-47 rifles in an undisclosed forest. In the video, they chanted “asawana, asawana,” a well-known slogan among the Ijaw people of the Niger Delta region. The supposed leader of the group, reading from a letter, stated: “We, the Niger Delta Rescue Movement, express deep concern over the recent developments in Rivers State, which threaten the governance of our beloved state under Governor Fubara. The demand for a 48-hour ultimatum to present the state budget is a deliberate move to destabilize Rivers State, incite chaos, and possibly pave the way for a state of emergency or impeachment. “We urge President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately and halt the actions of Minister Nyesom Wike and his associates, who are pushing Rivers State towards an avoidable crisis. The people of Rivers State deserve stability, progress, and a conducive environment for governance.” Ultimatum on Federal Allocation and Non-Indigenes’ Safety NDRM further warned that if the federal allocation due to Rivers State is not promptly released, they will take decisive action, including targeting oil production. “We cannot continue generating revenue for the Federation Account while being denied our rightful share. Our workers deserve salaries, and our government requires resources for essential development projects.” Additionally, they urged non-indigenes in the state to consider their safety and evacuate as the situation might escalate. CISLAC Condemns Political Instability, Calls Actions Treasonable Meanwhile, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has strongly condemned the ongoing political instability in Rivers State, describing the actions against Governor Fubara as treasonable. Gimba Hassan, Legal Manager of the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) and a CISLAC representative, asserted that the recent political maneuvers against the governor contain elements of treason under Section 37 of the Criminal Code Act and treasonable felony under Section 40 of the same Act. He cited various unlawful actions, including: “These acts were clearly intended to intimidate and subdue the governor, fitting the legal definitions of treason and treasonable felony,” Hassan explained. He also criticized the Rivers State House of Assembly for issuing an illegal 48-hour ultimatum for the budget presentation, stating that such a directive lacks legal backing. Citing the case El-Rufai vs. House of Representatives (2003) and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, Hassan pointed out that a legislative summons must provide at least seven days’ notice. “With the Supreme Court’s ruling, governance in Rivers State has been stalled. Instead of resolving the crisis, the House of Assembly is worsening it by going on a 12-week recess. This is unacceptable,” he stated. Call for Peaceful Resolution Hassan urged all political stakeholders in Rivers State to resolve their differences and prioritize the state’s progress. He emphasized that the Nigerian constitution begins with “We the People,” highlighting that governance should reflect the people’s will and best interests. For further insights on political and economic developments in Nigeria, visit Premium Times. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
