South-South Governors Oppose State of Emergency in Rivers State, Call for Rescission

Editor 15 hours agoLast Updated: March 20, 2025

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By DAYO ADESULU

The South-South Governors’ Forum has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s recent declaration of a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, describing the decision as unjustified and unwarranted. The governors argue that the current political situation in the state does not meet the constitutional requirements for such a drastic measure.

South-South Governors Reject State of Emergency in Rivers

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, the South-South governors emphasized that while President Bola Tinubu has the constitutional duty to maintain law and order, the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is not legally justified.

“The current political situation in Rivers State does not satisfy the criteria for declaring a state of emergency as outlined in the Constitution. Such a declaration should only be considered under extreme conditions like war, external aggression, imminent invasion, or a complete breakdown of public order,” the statement read.

Constitutional Provisions Not Met – South-South Governors

The Forum referenced Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which stipulates the conditions under which a state of emergency can be declared. According to the governors, the crisis in Rivers State, which primarily stems from political disputes between the Governor and the House of Assembly, does not warrant this action.

They further stated that the removal of a governor, deputy governor, or members of the House of Assembly must strictly follow the constitutional procedures outlined in Section 188 of the Constitution.

“We believe that the political disputes in Rivers State between the Governor and the House of Assembly should, ideally, be resolved through legal and constitutional means, rather than by executive fiat,” the Forum asserted.

Call for Immediate Rescission – South-South Governors

To de-escalate tensions and restore stability in Rivers State, the South-South Governors’ Forum has called on the Federal Government to immediately rescind the state of emergency.

“The moment for dialogue is now. Rather than resorting to drastic measures, all political actors must prioritize peace and constitutional order,” the statement urged.

The governors advised both the Federal Government and the Rivers State political stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve their differences. They warned that the state of emergency could set a dangerous precedent that might be exploited for political reasons in the future.

Implications of the State of Emergency in Rivers State

The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has generated widespread debate, with critics arguing that it could disrupt governance and create unnecessary panic among residents and businesses. Political analysts have also expressed concerns that such a decision could undermine democracy and discourage democratic conflict resolution.

According to the South-South Governors, imposing emergency rule in a politically volatile environment without exhausting legal mechanisms could erode public trust in the democratic process.

Political Reactions to the Emergency Rule in Rivers State

Several opposition parties, civil rights organizations, and legal experts have aligned with the South-South Governors’ Forum in rejecting the emergency declaration. Some have described it as an overreach by the Federal Government and an attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of Rivers State.

A legal expert and constitutional lawyer, Barrister Ifeoma Okoro, stated, “The conditions for a state of emergency are clearly defined in the Constitution. What is happening in Rivers is a political dispute, not an existential crisis that threatens national security.”

Meanwhile, supporters of the Federal Government argue that the declaration was necessary to prevent further political instability and ensure law and order.

Economic and Social Impact of the Emergency Rule

If fully implemented, the state of emergency in Rivers State could have significant economic and social consequences. Businesses may face uncertainty, investments could decline, and civil liberties may be temporarily restricted. Rivers State, being one of the major economic hubs of Nigeria due to its oil-rich status, could experience setbacks in trade, commerce, and industrial operations.

Residents have also expressed concerns over how the state of emergency will affect governance, security, and their daily lives. There are fears that the Federal Government might impose an administrator who could make unilateral decisions without the input of elected officials.

What’s Next for Rivers State?

With the South-South Governors’ Forum opposing the state of emergency in Rivers State, the coming days will determine whether the Federal Government will reconsider its decision or proceed with full implementation. Political observers believe that pressure from regional leaders, civil society groups, and legal experts may influence the Federal Government’s stance.

The Forum has urged all parties to remain calm and abide by democratic principles. “Rivers State must not be turned into a battleground for political supremacy. Dialogue, respect for the Constitution, and adherence to democratic norms remain the best way forward,” the governors concluded.

Conclusion

The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State continues to dominate national discourse. With growing calls for the reversal of the state of emergency in Rivers State, the Federal Government faces increasing pressure to adopt a more diplomatic approach. Whether this political standoff will lead to a peaceful resolution or further escalation remains to be seen.

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