Tensions continue to rise in Rivers State as suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara has publicly criticized the Nigeria Police Force for what he describes as a “double standard” in handling peaceful protests. His comments follow the forceful disruption of a pro-Fubara rally in Ahoada East, where police reportedly used teargas on elderly women and peaceful demonstrators. Two Sides of the Same Protest: Peaceful in Port Harcourt, Chaotic in Ahoada On Monday, April 15, 2025, two simultaneous protests unfolded across Rivers State, exposing sharp divides in public sentiment: While the Port Harcourt protest proceeded peacefully, the Ahoada protest turned chaotic as security agents dispersed the crowd using teargas, despite the demonstrators being largely composed of elderly women and youths. “The police treated the two protests differently. That’s not justice—it’s oppression,” said Jerry Omatsogunwa, Special Adviser to Governor Fubara on Electronic Media. Disturbing Footage from Ahoada Videos from the Ahoada protest show women kneeling and crying as they chant: “We want Fubara, we want peace.” One distressed protester added, “We are hungry, suffering, and dying. Sim is our hope.” According to reports, an elderly woman fainted after being teargassed, further intensifying public outrage over the police response. Port Harcourt Protesters Applaud Emergency Rule In contrast, the Port Harcourt demonstrators marched from Garrison Junction to Isaac Boro Park, holding placards like: The protest was led by Mrs. Inime Aguma, a former Commissioner for Social Welfare, who applauded President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.) as sole administrator of the state. “Our democratic institutions had collapsed. The emergency rule has restored peace and leadership,” Aguma stated. Governor’s Aide Slams Supporters of Emergency Rule Fubara’s media adviser, Omatsogunwa, dismissed the support for the state of emergency as “endorsement of illegality.” He also accused the sole administrator of nurturing political ambitions in Cross River State and called on both national and international stakeholders to closely monitor events in Rivers. “The whole world must watch what the state Commissioner of Police and the sole administrator are doing,” he warned. Constitutional Crisis: The Legal Battle Continues The political unrest in Rivers State intensified after President Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the State Assembly. In response, the National Assembly backed a declaration of emergency rule. However, 11 governors from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are challenging the legality of this declaration. According to reports from Premium Times Nigeria, the governors have hired senior lawyers to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), is preparing an official response on behalf of the Presidency. What This Means for Rivers State As Rivers State faces a political crossroad, citizens and leaders alike are calling for: The voices from both streets and courtrooms echo a shared sentiment: Rivers State deserves peace and legitimate governance. Read more about the impact of state of emergency declarations in Nigeria on governance and democracy. More on the national political climate at Premium Times Nigeria. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
The Senate’s Justification for the State of Emergency The Leader of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Opeyemi Michael Bamidele, has defended the National Assembly’s decision to approve President Bola Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State. He emphasized that this action was necessary to maintain stability and should be commended rather than criticized. Speaking at the 29th convocation ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU) in Ado Ekiti, Bamidele explained that an emergency declaration is an extraordinary measure designed to ensure peace and security, rather than being subjected to politically motivated scrutiny. How the National Assembly’s Decision Eased Political Tension Bamidele highlighted that the ratification of the state of emergency significantly reduced political unrest in Rivers State. Without this intervention, the state could have descended into a deeper crisis. Despite this, the National Assembly has faced widespread criticism, which, according to Bamidele, undermines Nigeria’s image on the global stage. Key Points from Senator Bamidele’s Speech: Defending National Interests Amidst Criticism Senator Bamidele expressed concerns over opposition attacks on the National Assembly, arguing that they are based on emotions and political motives rather than substantive issues. He reaffirmed that the Assembly remains committed to fostering peace and stability. “We are on a rescue mission to take Nigeria from regression to progression through effective legislation and intergovernmental collaboration,” Bamidele noted. He also clarified that collaboration with the Executive does not mean compromising the National Assembly’s independence but rather strengthening constitutional democracy. Legislative Focus on National Development Beyond stabilizing Rivers State, Bamidele emphasized the National Assembly’s broader objectives, including: Understanding the Role of the Nigerian National Assembly – A comprehensive guide on the legislative duties and responsibilities of the Nigerian Senate. Contributions to Ekiti State University’s Growth At the same convocation event, Professor Akin Oyebode, the Pro-Chancellor of EKSU, recognized the role of the university’s alumni in its development. He highlighted significant projects facilitated by Senator Bamidele, including: Similarly, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Joseph Ayodele celebrated EKSU’s recent ranking as Nigeria’s best state university by Times Higher Education, attributing this success to increased government funding, which rose from ₦260 million to ₦410 million monthly. Times Higher Education Ranking of Nigerian Universities – Explore the latest rankings of universities in Nigeria and beyond. Conclusion: A Call for Constructive Criticism Senator Bamidele reaffirmed that the National Assembly welcomes criticism, provided it is constructive and aimed at national development. He urged critics to offer viable alternatives rather than engaging in politically motivated attacks. As Nigeria navigates complex governance challenges, strategic collaboration between various government arms remains essential for fostering national stability and growth. 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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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
