By Tina Amanda
The People’s Advocacy group, PILEX Centre, has strongly condemned the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling it unconstitutional and a direct assault on democracy.
Courage Nsirimovo, Coordinator of PILEX Centre, described the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy as an unlawful move that failed to follow due process.
He argued that the president’s actions were biased in favor of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and would only escalate tensions in the state.
Nsirimovo criticized the president’s decision, stating: “PILEX Centre received the shocking news of the proclamation of a State of Emergency and the immediate suspension of the Governor and Deputy Governor of Rivers State, both of whom were duly elected by the people.
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“This move violates Section 305 of the Constitution, which outlines the conditions under which a State of Emergency can be declared. There is no widespread unrest, war, or breakdown of law and order in Rivers State to justify such drastic action.”
He further accused President Tinubu of unfairly siding with Minister Nyesom Wike and the 27 defected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, whom he claimed were fueling the crisis for political control.
Nsirimovo questioned why the President failed to declare a State of Emergency in other parts of Nigeria where insurgency, terrorism, and banditry have led to thousands of deaths.
“Since President Tinubu took office in 2023, countless Nigerians have been killed by terrorists and herdsmen. He never imposed emergency rule in those states, yet he rushes to do so in Rivers over a mere threat to oil pipelines. This proves he values oil revenue more than the lives of Nigerian citizens.”
PILEX Centre argued that the pipeline explosion issue was a case of economic sabotage, not a justification for emergency rule.
The advocacy group also cited the 2004 Supreme Court ruling in Attorney General of the Federation v. Attorney General of Lagos State, which established that:
- The President must seek National Assembly approval before declaring a State of Emergency.
- An emergency does not justify removing an elected governor unless clearly approved by law.
- Presidential powers under emergency rule are not absolute and must comply with the Constitution.
Nsirimovo maintained that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains the legitimate leader of Rivers State, rejecting any imposed administrator.
PILEX Centre has urged the people of Rivers State to: Reject the imposed administration and refuse to recognize its authority, challenge the emergency rule in court and demand a return to constitutional governance. Engage in peaceful protests to resist what they call a “political capture” of Rivers State’s resources.
Nsirimovo concluded by warning that President Tinubu’s actions set a dangerous precedent for Nigerian democracy, urging civil society and legal experts to oppose what he called ‘executive overreach’.
