Calls Mount for President Tinubu to Reverse Rivers State Emergency Rule, Reinstate Governor Fubara

Calls Mount for President Tinubu to Reverse Rivers State Emergency Rule, Reinstate Governor Fubara

By Audoz Buzz Political Desk

[April 9, 2025 – Abuja] — Pressure is mounting on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the controversial emergency rule declared in Rivers State and reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whose sudden suspension has sparked outrage, confusion, and allegations of political overreach.

The declaration, issued late last week under the pretext of escalating political instability in the state, led to the immediate suspension of Governor Fubara and the appointment of a federal administrator. The move has triggered a wave of protests from legal experts, civil society groups, and opposition leaders — who say the action was unconstitutional, excessive, and politically motivated.

Public Outcry and Legal Firestorm

In Port Harcourt, hundreds of residents took to the streets chanting, “Democracy not dictatorship!”, calling for the reinstatement of their elected governor. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) also issued a strongly worded statement, warning that the president’s actions "undermine constitutional democracy and set a dangerous precedent."

“There is no legal or security justification for imposing emergency rule in Rivers,” said NBA spokesperson Barr. Nkechi Uzo. “The constitution provides clear conditions for such action — and none have been met.”

Political observers point to growing tension between Fubara and powerful political interests in the state, particularly those aligned with former governor and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Sources say the breakdown in relations and resistance to federal influence played a key role in the federal government’s decision.

Voices from Across the Nation

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the move, urging President Tinubu to prioritize dialogue over force. “This is not the way to resolve political disputes,” Atiku said. “The will of the people must be respected.”

Labour Party leader Peter Obi echoed similar sentiments, warning that the decision threatens to erode public confidence in democratic institutions. “You cannot suspend a sitting governor without due process. We must stand for the rule of law, not rule by decree,” he said.

Even within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), dissent is growing. Senator Magnus Abe, a key Rivers stakeholder, said the emergency rule declaration risked plunging the state into deeper chaos. “We need solutions, not suppression,” Abe warned.

The Presidency Responds

Presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale defended the action, claiming it was necessary to prevent the “total collapse of governance” in Rivers. He cited reports of violent clashes and an alleged plot to disrupt public peace.

However, independent fact-checks by civil society watchdogs found no verifiable record of widespread violence or breakdown of law and order to justify the federal intervention.

Next Steps and National Implications

Legal suits challenging the emergency rule are already underway at the Federal High Court in Abuja, with leading constitutional lawyers arguing for an immediate reversal.

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara — though silent publicly — is said to be mobilizing a legal and political counteroffensive to reclaim his seat, with support from within and beyond Rivers State.

The eyes of the nation are now fixed on Aso Rock. As calls for reversal grow louder, President Tinubu faces a defining moment: uphold the constitution, or deepen the crisis.

For now, the people of Rivers wait — but they are no longer quiet.

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