The political crisis in Rivers State has escalated following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly. The move, announced on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, civil society, and entertainment figures, who have described it as an unconstitutional overreach and a threat to democracy.

PDP Governors Forum: Emergency Rule is an Attack on Democracy

The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) has criticized the suspension of democratic rule in Rivers State, calling it a premeditated attack on the state and opposition parties. In a statement issued by its Chairman, Bala Mohammed, the PDPGF expressed solidarity with Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State, describing the situation as a “dangerous course of action” that threatens Nigeria’s democracy.

Mohammed accused President Tinubu of enabling the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in the crisis, stating, “He has become a law unto himself because he was playing out your script.” The PDPGF warned that the emergency rule could exacerbate national crises, deepen mistrust, and undermine economic stability and national cohesion.

Rotimi Amaechi: Tinubu’s Action is Unconstitutional

Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, also condemned the emergency declaration, calling it a “dangerous affront” to the Nigerian Constitution. In a statement on Wednesday, Amaechi argued that the suspension of elected officials violates Section 188 of the Constitution, which outlines the legal process for removing a governor.

Amaechi accused unnamed forces of orchestrating a “brazen attempt at power grab” in Rivers State and urged the National Assembly and state governors to reject the move. He warned that the declaration sets a dangerous precedent and risks plunging Nigeria into totalitarianism.

Nollywood Stars Defend Fubara, Condemn Federal Overreach

Nollywood actress Ibinabo Fiberesima and Labour Party Chair Hilda Dokubo have also spoken out against the emergency rule, defending Governor Fubara and calling for peace in Rivers State. Fiberesima criticized the heavy security presence in the state, stating, “We have finally found peace, and today you come out and see army personnel driving around like something is going on. This is not right.”

Dokubo accused the federal government of attempting to seize control of Rivers State’s economic resources, describing the crisis as a “battle for its economic soul.” She praised Fubara’s administration for improving governance, including paying civil servants’ 13th-month salaries and constructing roads in riverine communities.

Labour Unions: Emergency Rule Sets a Dangerous Precedent

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have joined the chorus of condemnation, calling the emergency declaration a “direct assault on democracy.” In a joint statement, NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo urged President Tinubu to revoke the declaration, warning that it erodes constitutional governance and threatens the autonomy of subnational governments.

The labour unions emphasized that no democratic society can thrive where elected leaders are arbitrarily removed, and they called on Tinubu to respect constitutional limits and act in the interest of national stability.

Background: A Prolonged Power Struggle

The crisis in Rivers State stems from a power struggle between Governor Fubara and factions loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike. Tensions escalated after the Supreme Court affirmed the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers House of Assembly, which is seen as aligned with Wike. The Assembly subsequently served Fubara and his deputy with a notice of alleged misconducts.

President Tinubu cited “disturbing incidents,” including pipeline vandalism and explosions, as justification for the emergency rule. He appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State for six months. However, critics argue that the move is politically motivated and violates constitutional provisions.

Conclusion: A Growing Backlash

The emergency declaration has sparked a national debate, with supporters viewing it as a necessary security measure and critics warning of federal overreach and political motives. As the crisis unfolds, calls for the restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State continue to grow, with many urging President Tinubu to reverse his decision and uphold the rule of law.