"Rivers Crisis: Lawmakers Under Pressure to Approve Tinubu’s State of Emergency Declaration"

 

President Bola Tinubu's recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has intensified political discourse, particularly concerning the role of the National Assembly in this process. On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for six months, citing escalating political unrest and security challenges, including pipeline vandalism. He appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the state's military administrator during this period. 

According to Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, such a proclamation must be presented to the National Assembly for approval within two days if in session, or ten days if not, to remain valid. As of March 19, reports indicate that lawmakers are under significant pressure to ratify the President's declaration promptly. A source within the National Assembly suggested that the proclamation is likely to be approved, stating, "I can reliably tell you that the proclamation will be rectified on Thursday. Many of us have been approached.

The President's action has sparked diverse reactions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the move as a political maneuver, accusing President Tinubu of partisanship in the state's turmoil. Abubakar stated, "The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State reeks of political manipulation and outright bad faith." 

Similarly, Dr. Reuben Abati, former media aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, labeled the declaration an "impeachable offence," arguing that the President lacks constitutional authority to unilaterally remove a state governor. Abati emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution does not permit the President to suspend elected state officials through such a proclamation. 

The Nigerian Bar Association also condemned the suspension of elected officials, asserting that a state of emergency does not equate to the dissolution of democratic governance. Afam Osigwe, the association's president, highlighted that the judiciary in Rivers State remains functional, ensuring legal processes continue despite the executive and legislative suspensions. 

As the National Assembly deliberates on the President's proclamation, the nation watches closely, aware that their decision will set a precedent for federal intervention in state matters and the balance of power within Nigeria's federal structure.