Rivers State Emergency: Tinubu's Move Sparks Controversy And Legal Battles

President Tinubu's Bold Move Sparks a Firestorm in Rivers State

Let's break it down, folks. President Bola Tinubu has thrown a big curveball with his declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. This decision has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, stirring up a mix of reactions from all corners. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has already announced plans to challenge this move in court, setting the stage for what could be a long and heated legal battle.

Naija News has been keeping a close eye on this situation. President Tinubu's announcement didn't just stop at declaring a state of emergency. He also suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire state House of Assembly for six months. That's quite a bold move, and it's certainly not sitting well with everyone. To take charge during this period, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the Sole Administrator of the state. This decision has sparked quite the backlash from the opposition.

PDP Governors Speak Out: "This Is an Assault on Democracy"

The PDP Governors’ Forum has come out swinging against Tinubu’s decision. They've labeled it as unconstitutional and a direct threat to the democratic values that Nigeria has worked so hard to build. Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has been vocal about the party's intentions to seek legal redress.

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In his bi-weekly newsletter, aptly titled ‘The Business of Governance (Issue 110)’, Makinde didn't mince words. He described Tinubu's actions as nothing less than a suspension of democracy that every Nigerian should oppose. "I'm proud of the strength and leadership our great party, the PDP, is showing," Makinde said. "We can't sit idly by and watch the democracy we've built over almost three decades crumble under our noses. It's time we stand up for fairness, equity, and justice."

He went on to call on all Nigerians to raise their voices against any action that jeopardizes the stability and integrity of our democracy.

PDP Youth Wing Joins the Fray: "Tinubu Lacks Constitutional Authority"

Adding fuel to the fire, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, echoed Makinde's sentiments. Speaking with Saturday PUNCH, Osadolor criticized President Tinubu's decision, arguing that it lacks constitutional backing. "The President does not have the legal grounds to suspend both the executive and legislative arms of a state government," Osadolor emphasized. "While the President has the authority to declare a state of emergency, there's no constitutional provision that allows him to suspend officials. Let's not forget that even President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in the past without dismissing the governors in those states."

Niger Delta Group Accuses Tinubu of Political Bias

Backing the PDP governors, the Niger Delta Youth Council (NDYC) accused Tinubu of showing political bias against the Niger Delta region. NDYC President, Bene Mamamu, made this clear in a statement released on Friday, denouncing the emergency rule as discriminatory.

Ijaw Group Calls for Immediate Reversal

The Ijaw People’s Association (IPA) also condemned the declaration, labeling it as a "desecration of democracy." IPA President, Patrick Ebikebuno, speaking in Port Harcourt, urged Tinubu to prove his commitment to democratic principles by reversing his decision. "This declaration is deeply troubling for the Ijaw nation, including those in Ondo, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa states," Ebikebuno stated. "We are known for our gentle nature and our ability to accommodate others, but this move is a step too far."

South-South Governors Divided: Some Support, Others Oppose

The South-South Governors’ Forum, led by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, called for an immediate reversal of the state of emergency. They argue that the crisis in Rivers should be resolved through constitutional means rather than executive action. However, there's a rift within the forum. Acting Governor of Cross River, Dr. Peter Odey, and Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, have distanced themselves from the forum's stance, expressing full support for Tinubu's decision.

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Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma also threw his weight behind Tinubu, arguing that the move was necessary for national security. "We must prioritize the safety and security of our people," Uzodimma stated. "Sometimes, tough decisions need to be made for the greater good."

Bode George: "This Is Democratic Armageddon"

Former PDP Deputy National Vice Chairman, Bode George, was equally vocal in his criticism. In an interview with Arise TV, George described the emergency rule as an unconstitutional maneuver aimed at political dominance. "Even if you want to declare a state of emergency, there are specific conditions that must be met," George explained. "This move feels like a return to the dark days of democratic Armageddon in Nigeria. We need to tread carefully."

Rabiu Kwankwaso Faults National Assembly's Role

NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, joined the chorus of opposition. He warned against repeating the political mistakes of the past. In a Facebook post, the former Kano State Governor criticized the National Assembly's approval of Tinubu's decision, questioning the legality of the entire process.

Ijaw Youth Council Takes the FG to ECOWAS Court

In a bold move, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has taken legal action against the Federal Government at the ECOWAS Court in Abuja. The suit, filed on March 20, 2025, lists several IYC members as applicants, demanding the nullification of all decisions made by the Sole Administrator. They are also seeking $10 million in damages, citing violations of their rights.

APC vs Opposition: A Heated Debate in the Halls of Power

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the opposition's criticisms, arguing that Tinubu's actions were in the best interest of Rivers residents. However, opposition lawmakers like Senator Seriake Dickson and Senator Ireti Kingibe have condemned the National Assembly's approval of the emergency rule, questioning the legality of suspending elected officials without following due constitutional process.

Dickson praised Senator Aminu Tambuwal for questioning the legal foundation of the move and accused the Senate President of stifling dissenting voices. Reacting, APC National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru dismissed the opposition's concerns as mere political theatrics, insisting that the President made the right decision.

Sole Administrator Steps In: Ibok-Ette Ibas Takes Charge

Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, now serving as the Sole Administrator, has promised a fresh start for Rivers State. He assured local government officials of his commitment to good governance, confirming the release of withheld state allocations and promising prompt salary payments. "The withheld allocations have now been released," Ibas stated. "I issue a directive that all necessary steps be taken to ensure that salaries are paid without further delay."

He also met with traditional rulers, urging them to discourage cultism and other vices in their communities. "We need your help to foster a peaceful and prosperous environment," Ibas emphasized. "Together, we can make Rivers State a place we're all proud to call home."