Outrageous Overreach Of Executive Powers- Concerned Rivers Civil Society Organisations Condemns Emergency Rule Declaration

This declaration is particularly alarming as it comes in the midst of an orchestrated political crisis, driven by vested interests operating both within and outside the state. Instead of addressing the root causes of the conflict—such as the unconstitutional maneuvers of a factionalized State House of Assembly, openly backed by the Federal Government—the President has opted to penalize the entire state, putting the lives and livelihoods of millions at risk.

Rather than ensuring the impartial enforcement of the Supreme Court’s ruling and calling all political actors to order, the Federal Government has chosen an extreme measure that undermines peace and stability. President Tinubu’s refusal to condemn the actions of key conflict instigators who have actively fueled this crisis is both disappointing and unacceptable. By empowering political actors who thrive on division and discord, the Federal Government has signaled its complicity in the subversion of democracy in Rivers State.

We also take strong exception to the Attorney General of the Federation’s claims linking the Governor to an alleged security threat in Rivers State. These accusations are nothing more than an orchestrated attempt to justify the unconstitutional declaration of emergency rule. We challenge the Attorney General to provide credible evidence of any genuine security threats. Rivers State has remained peaceful under the leadership of the Governor, despite ongoing provocations.

OUR DEMANDS

In light of these concerns, we demand the following immediate actions:

THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS ILLEGAL STATE OF EMERGENCY

If not reversed, this declaration will have far-reaching negative consequences, including:

THREAT TO DEMOCRACY: This sets a dangerous precedent where political disagreements are met with authoritarian crackdowns instead of constitutional resolutions.

ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES: Rivers State is a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The uncertainty caused by this action will deter investors, disrupt governance, and weaken economic growth.

SECURITY RISKS: Rather than restoring order, the Federal Government’s heavy-handed approach will escalate tensions, increasing the risk of violence and instability.

HARDSHIP ON CITIZENS: The people of Rivers State—both indigenes and non-indigenes—will bear the brunt of this reckless decision. Businesses will suffer, essential government functions will be disrupted, and insecurity will rise.

We remind Mr. President of his own history: as an opposition figure, Senator Bola Tinubu vehemently opposed President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration of a state of emergency in the North-East, which did not even include the suspension of elected officials. It is now hypocritical for the same Tinubu to take an even more extreme measure against Rivers State.

A CALL TO ACTION

Given the National Assembly’s endorsement of this unconstitutional act, we call on all Nigerians not to remain silent as history threatens to repeat itself. The slippery slope of emergency rule in the Western Region in 1962 serves as a stark reminder of where unchecked executive overreach can lead.

We appeal to all patriots and voices of reason to rise against this blatant violation of the Constitution and disregard for the rule of law. The time to act is now.

We stand in solidarity with the people of Rivers State and reaffirm our commitment to democracy, justice, and the rule of law.

SIGNED:

For and on behalf of Concerned Rivers Civil Society Organisations.