S’South govs call for revocation of emergency rule in Rivers
By Jeffrey Agbo
South-South Governors’ Forum headed by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has called for the rescission of the state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
During a television broadcast on Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and the House of Assembly over the political crisis that has engulfed the oil-rich state.
In a statement on Thursday, the South-South Governors’ Forum, of which Rivers State is a member, said it believed the political impasse in Rivers did not meet the criteria for declaring a state of emergency as outlined in the constitution.
“The South-South Governors’ Forum notes the six-month declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, a constituent part of our Forum, and the suspension of two democratic institutions,” the statement said.
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“We recognise the President’s constitutional duty to maintain law and order throughout Nigeria, just as we are equally mandated to securing peace and stability in our states.
“However, the South-South Governors’ Forum expresses concern that the current political situation in Rivers State does not satisfy the criteria for declaring a state of emergency as outlined in Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended). This section suggests that such a declaration should be considered under specific conditions like war, external aggression, imminent invasion, breakdown of public order, existential threats to Nigeria, natural disasters, or other significant public dangers.
“It is also worth noting that the Constitution outlines specific procedures for the removal of a governor and deputy governor, as detailed in Section 188, and similar provisions exist for the removal of members of the House of Assembly and the dissolution of parliament. In the current situation, it appears that these guidelines might not have been fully considered.”
The forum said the dispute between Fubara and the House of Assembly should be resolved through legal and constitutional means “rather than by executive fiat.”
“To reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the Rescission of the State of Emergency,” it added, urging all parties to remain calm.
