The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, labeling it as unjust, divisive, and a dangerous threat to Nigeria’s democratic framework.
President Tinubu, in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday evening, declared the emergency to “restore law and order” in the state amidst a deepening political crisis.
The move saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the interim administrator of the state.
Reacting to the development, the PDP Governors’ Forum led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, issued a statement on Wednesday expressing grave concern.
The forum accused the president of exacerbating the situation in Rivers rather than seeking a peaceful and lawful resolution.
They also criticized Tinubu for failing to address the controversial role played by Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, whom they accused of fueling the political turmoil in Rivers without any consequence, due to the president’s apparent silence.
“The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum notes with grave concern and utter misgiving the suspension of democratic rule in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his nationwide broadcast of Tuesday, March 18, 2025,” the governors said in their statement.
“This unwarranted and premeditated attack on Rivers State, the PDP, and other opposition parties is today the greatest threat to democracy in Nigeria. It is an ill wind that will blow no one any good.”
The forum aligned itself with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which has raised alarm over the suspension of duly elected officials, warning that any declaration of emergency must adhere strictly to constitutional procedures.
Citing Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, the NBA emphasized the importance of legality in such actions.
Backing this stance, the PDP Governors’ Forum vowed to challenge the president’s move in court.
“The Forum completely aligns itself with the NBA and promises to subject Section 305(3) of the Constitution to judicial interpretation. This authoritarian shenanigan is unacceptable and cannot stand,” the statement concluded.
The governors reiterated their full support for Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State, warning that suspending democratic governance sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine Nigeria’s political stability and democratic values.
Credit: Politics except headline
