Rivers State in Crisis: A Democratic Time Bomb Under Emergency Rule

Federal Overreach Sparks Constitutional Concerns

Rivers State, Nigeria’s oil-rich region, has plunged into political turmoil following President Bola Tinubu’s controversial state of emergency declaration on March 18, 2025. Despite government claims of restoring law and order, critics argue the move violates constitutional provisions, with no evidence of security threats justifying such extreme measures.

Questionable Legal Basis

The federal government’s decision to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and dissolve the state legislature has drawn sharp criticism. Legal experts highlight that Section 305 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution doesn’t authorize suspending elected officials. Former legislator Hon. Linus Okorie condemned the action as “riddled with constitutional breaches and political motivations.”

Administrator’s Controversial Actions

Retired Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, appointed as Administrator, has taken sweeping actions beyond his purported security mandate:

• Replaced local government administrators with political appointees
• Initiated state budget preparation without legislative oversight
• Dismissed Governor Fubara’s political appointees
• Reconstituted electoral commission leadership

Political Allegations Surface

Reports indicate 11 of 15 new appointees to key positions are loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike, fueling suspicions of political engineering. Community leaders note no actual security crisis exists, with both riverine areas and Port Harcourt remaining peaceful.

Democratic Erosion Fears

The situation has been labeled a “civilian coup” by critics, raising concerns about:

• Precedent for federal interference in state governance
• Potential impact on 2027 elections
• Erosion of constitutional democracy

Public Backlash Grows

Rivers residents have mobilized protests under banners like “Democracy, Not Decrees.” Youth groups launched campaigns with hashtags #RestoreRiversDemocracy and #LetFubaraGovern, while religious leaders hold prayer sessions for “restoration of the people’s will.”

Constitutional Crisis Deepens

Legal experts warn the Administrator’s lawmaking actions exceed emergency powers. Former legislator Hon. CID Maduabum cautioned: “The administrator’s unconstitutional actions could plunge the state into total chaos.”

National Implications

The Rivers crisis has become a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy, with potential ramifications for federal-state relations nationwide. Civic groups warn prolonged emergency rule could trigger widespread protests and set dangerous precedents.

For more details, read the original article on New Diplomat.