The South-South Governors’ Forum has called for the immediate reversal of the state of emergency in Rivers State, recently declared by President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the forum, led by Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, emphasized that the situation in Rivers does not meet the constitutional criteria for such a drastic measure.

“Rescind Emergency Rule, Pursue Dialogue”

The statement read:
“To reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the rescission of the state of emergency.”

The governors stressed the need for dialogue and urged all parties to remain calm, uphold peace, and respect the constitution.

“The time for dialogue is now,” the statement added.

Governors Question Constitutional Justification

While acknowledging the President’s constitutional duty to maintain law and order, the forum argued that the political crisis in Rivers does not satisfy the conditions outlined in Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended).

The section stipulates that a state of emergency should only be declared in cases of:

• War or external aggression
• Imminent invasion
• Breakdown of public order
• Existential threats to Nigeria
• Natural disasters or major public dangers

“Follow Legal and Constitutional Processes”

The governors further pointed out that the Nigerian Constitution already provides legal frameworks for resolving political disputes, including:

• Section 188, which outlines the procedure for the removal of a governor or deputy governor
• Provisions for the dissolution of a state House of Assembly

“In the current situation, it appears that these guidelines might not have been fully considered,” the statement noted.

The forum insisted that the political disputes between the governor and the state House of Assembly should be resolved through legal and constitutional means, rather than through executive fiat.

Rising Opposition to Emergency Rule

The call by the South-South Governors’ Forum adds to the growing opposition against the emergency rule in Rivers State. Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, recently condemned the decision as “aggression against democracy,” while Senator Seriake Dickson vowed to mobilize lawmakers against it.

Meanwhile, controversy continues to swirl over the appointment of a Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.), with debates over its constitutionality and potential legal challenges.

As pressure mounts, it remains to be seen whether the presidency will reconsider the emergency rule or push forward despite resistance.