In a decisive move, the South-South Governors’ Forum has called on President Bola Tinubu to overturn the recent state of emergency declared in Rivers State, emphasizing that the crisis should be handled through constitutional means rather than executive intervention.
A statement released on Thursday and signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, expressed concerns over the declaration. The statement read, “To de-escalate tensions and pave the way for lasting peace, we urge the immediate reversal of the state of emergency.”
The governors stressed the importance of fostering dialogue as a means to resolve the political standoff and appealed to all stakeholders to maintain order and uphold the constitution. “At this crucial juncture, we urge all parties to remain composed, respect the rule of law, and work towards a peaceful resolution. The moment for dialogue is now,” the statement added.
While acknowledging the president’s role in ensuring national security, the Forum questioned whether the circumstances in Rivers State warranted such drastic measures. They pointed out that Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution prescribes specific conditions for a state of emergency, such as war, external aggression, a breakdown of public order, or other severe threats, none of which appear to be present in this case.
Additionally, the Forum emphasized that Nigeria’s constitution provides clear procedures for the removal of a governor, deputy governor, and members of the State House of Assembly. They argued that adherence to legal frameworks is paramount and that the political situation should be resolved through established democratic processes.
“The South-South Governors’ Forum takes note of the six-month emergency declaration in Rivers State and the suspension of two democratic institutions. While we recognize the president’s responsibility to maintain law and order across the country, we are equally bound by our duty to uphold stability and peace within our respective states.
“However, the conditions in Rivers State do not meet the constitutional threshold for an emergency declaration as stipulated in Section 305(3). Furthermore, the constitution outlines explicit procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor under Section 188, as well as for legislative dissolutions,” the statement continued.
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Reaffirming their commitment to democratic governance, the South-South Governors’ Forum urged all concerned parties to follow constitutional procedures and avoid actions that could exacerbate political tensions. They maintained that the dispute between the Governor of Rivers State and the State House of Assembly should be resolved within the legal framework, ensuring stability and upholding Nigeria’s democratic principles.
