ONC Condemns President Tinubu’s Declaration Of Emergency Rule In Rivers State

The Orashi National Congress, ONC, has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as unconstitutional, illegal, and a direct violation of Nigeria’s democratic principles.

In a national broadcast, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly, citing prolonged political instability and security concerns. The President also appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the sole administrator of the state, a move that has sparked outrage across various political and civil society groups.

In a statement issued shortly after the broadcast, the Orashi National Congress declared the President’s action as a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the democratic process.

“There is nowhere in the Nigerian Constitution, where the President is permitted, empowered, or authorized to appoint a sole administrator for a state,” the ONC stated.

“This move is unconstitutional and a dangerous precedent that undermines the principles of federalism and democracy in Nigeria.”

The Congress emphasized that the removal of a sitting governor can only occur through clearly defined constitutional processes—either by the completion of tenure, resignation, impeachment, or in the unfortunate event of death.

“The Supreme Court has long established these principles of law. Any action outside these provisions is an assault on the rule of law and democracy,” the ONC added.

The crisis in Rivers State has been brewing for months, with political tensions between Governor Fubara and members of the state assembly. The Supreme Court, in its February 28, 2025, ruling, acknowledged the unconstitutional actions that had fueled the crisis but never mandated the President to impose emergency rule or suspend elected officials.

The ONC expressed concerns that the move by the President is a political takeover masked as a security intervention.

“If the President was truly concerned about governance in Rivers State, he would have ensured that constitutional measures were followed, not this dictatorial imposition,” the statement read.

Legal experts and opposition politicians have also weighed in on the matter, warning that Tinubu’s action could trigger a constitutional crisis. Many have called on the National Assembly to reject the declaration, arguing that it violates the principles of separation of powers.

The ONC has vowed to mobilize democratic forces to resist what it termed “an assault on the will of the people of Rivers State”.

“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and international bodies to stand against this illegal declaration. The people of Rivers State deserve democracy, not military-style governance,” the statement concluded.

As tensions rise, all eyes are now on the judiciary and the National Assembly to determine whether this declaration will stand or be overturned.