FG Warns States as Nigerians Decry State of Emergency in Rivers
The Federal Government has cautioned state governments as Nigerians express concerns over the state of emergency in Rivers. Authorities emphasize strict measures to uphold law and order amid growing tensions.
The Federal Government has issued a stern warning that it will not hesitate to impose severe sanctions, including declaring a state of emergency in any state where Nigeria’s economic interests are threatened. This follows growing public backlash against President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State—a move critics say undermines Nigeria’s democracy.
Government Justifies Action, Warns Other States
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, defended the President’s decision, emphasizing that no individual or entity would receive preferential treatment. Speaking to State House correspondents, Fagbemi stated, “It is Rivers’ turn today; it could be anybody’s tomorrow. Let this serve as a warning to those who seek to disrupt democracy and its dividends.”
Fagbemi reiterated that the declaration of a State of Emergency was not only a response to the immediate crisis in Rivers but also a signal to other states whose actions might jeopardize national security. He warned, “If similar situations arise elsewhere, I will advise the President to act with even greater vigor. There will be no preferential treatment.”
President Tinubu’s proclamation came amid escalating violence and anarchy in Rivers State, which he said posed a threat to lives, property, and economic stability. In a bid to restore order, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) as Sole Administrator of the state. Ibas, who was sworn in at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, pledged to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure peace, security, and stability in Rivers State.
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Critics Decry Democratic Erosion
Despite the government’s rationale, the declaration has sparked widespread condemnation. Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, described the move as a blatant affront to Nigeria’s democracy. He argued, “With this single act, Mr. President has effectively suspended and truncated democracy in Rivers State. This violates our Constitution, which Mr. President swore to uphold.”
Amaechi pointed to Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the process for removing a sitting governor—a procedure he claims the President bypassed. “An elected governor cannot be removed by presidential fiat. The suspension of two key democratic arms of government in Rivers State is unconstitutional and sets a dangerous precedent,” he added.
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Similarly, Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, criticized the action as reckless and illegal. He warned that allowing such constitutional breaches to stand could embolden the presidency to arbitrarily suspend other state governments in the future. “This is not just about Rivers State; it’s about the survival of democracy in Nigeria,” Obi stated.
Ethnic Groups Weigh In
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) also condemned the declaration, labeling it a “hasty, lopsided, and partisan” move allegedly designed to favor Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike. INC President Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba accused the President of ignoring wise counsel and implementing a premeditated plan.
According to Okaba, the supposed aim of last Saturday’s thanksgiving event hosted by Wike in Abalama was to incite violence and justify the imposition of emergency rule. However, the plot reportedly failed when Ijaw youths refrained from violence, heeding the advice of their elders.
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Legislative Uncertainty
Meanwhile, the Senate postponed deliberations on whether to approve the State of Emergency, despite listing it as a priority item on its agenda. The delay has left many Nigerians questioning the legislative body’s ability to provide clarity on the matter.
In the House of Representatives, confusion reigned as conflicting statements emerged regarding whether lawmakers had received official communication from the Presidency. While Deputy Spokesperson Hon. Philip Agbese claimed members learned of the declaration through newspapers, House Spokesperson Hon. Akin Rotimi insisted that the President’s formal letter had been transmitted.
Calm Amidst Uncertainty in Rivers
As debates rage on, Port Harcourt, the state capital, has remained relatively peaceful. Normal business activities have resumed, though military and police patrols continue to enforce security. The whereabouts of Governor Siminalayi Fubara remain unclear, with conflicting reports about his movements.
Legal experts and political analysts argue that the crisis stems from selfish political ambitions, particularly those of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Dr. Chukwuma Chinelo, a legal practitioner, described the situation as a consequence of Wike’s desire to dominate Rivers State politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Call for Dialogue
Policy analyst Sunny Dada urged President Tinubu to rescind the decision and convene a roundtable dialogue involving all stakeholders. He emphasized that such discussions must be balanced and inclusive to address the root causes of the crisis.
“The President should summon the courage to call the FCT Minister to order and create conditions for implementing the Supreme Court judgment fairly,” Dada concluded.
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