NEWS: SOUTH-SOUTH GOVERNORS ASK TINUBU TO REVERSE EMERGENCY RULE IN RIVERS

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Concerned with the recent imposition of a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of two democratic institutions, the South-South Governors’ Forum has called for a reexamination of the ruling.

The political turmoil in Rivers State prompted President Bola Tinubu to make the announcement on Tuesday.

However, the Forum recognized the President’s constitutional duty to uphold law and order throughout the nation in a statement signed by its chairman, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri. It questioned, therefore, if the circumstances in Rivers State satisfy the requirements of the constitution for such a proclamation.

The governors pointed out that a state of emergency should only be proclaimed in dire situations, such as a war, an impending invasion, external aggression, or a serious breakdown of public order, citing Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended).

They maintained that the suspension of democratic institutions is not warranted by the political unrest in Rivers State.

The Forum further underlined that Section 188 of the Constitution clearly outlines the steps for dismissing a governor, deputy governor, and members of the House of Assembly. They expressed worries that the prevailing circumstances might not have fully complied with these fundamental standards.

To de-escalate tensions and promote lasting peace, the South-South Governors’ Forum has urged the Federal Government to rescind the state of emergency and allow constitutional and legal mechanisms to resolve the political dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

In the meantime, the Forum called on all stakeholders to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and embrace dialogue as the path forward.

“The moment for dialogue is now,” the governors added.