The National Assembly has filed a preliminary objection at the Supreme Court, urging it to dismiss a lawsuit brought by 11 People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governors.
The governors of Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, Delta, Taraba, Zamfara, and Bayelsa states had earlier filed a case SC/CV/329/2025, questioning the legality of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration issued on March 18, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the State House of Assembly.
The National Assembly argues that the Supreme Court lacks jurisdiction to entertain the suit due to procedural flaws. It also claims that the plaintiffs failed to serve the required three-month pre-action notice to the Clerk of the National Assembly.
The Assembly asserts that no dispute exists between the plaintiffs and the National Assembly, and therefore, the suit lacks a cause of action.
Also Read: National Assembly Called to Expedite Action On Passage Of Traditional Rulers’ Bill
The Assembly argues that the plaintiffs lack the legal standing to institute the suit, and the National Assembly urges the Supreme Court to dismiss the suit. It requests a cost of N1 billion to be awarded jointly and severally against the plaintiffs.
The PDP governors are challenging the President’s powers to suspend a democratically elected state institution and replace it with an unelected one.
They question the constitutionality of the National Assembly’s approval of the state of emergency proclamation through a voice vote.
The outcome of the suit could have significant implications for the political landscape in Rivers State and potentially beyond. The Supreme Court’s decision will determine the validity of the state of emergency proclamation and the suspension of the state government officials.
