The South-South Governors Forum, under the leadership of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, has firmly rejected General Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, advocating instead for legal and constitutional methods to address the ongoing crisis.
The forum expressed its stance in a statement issued by Governor Diri, emphasizing a commitment to due process over executive overreach.
Diri acknowledged General Tinubu’s constitutional responsibility to maintain law and order across Nigeria, just as state governors are tasked with ensuring peace and stability within their domains. However, the forum argued that the political situation in Rivers State does not meet the criteria for a state of emergency as defined in Section 305(3) of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended). This section specifies that such a declaration is warranted only under extreme conditions like war, external aggression, imminent invasion, a breakdown of public order, existential threats to Nigeria, natural disasters, or other significant public dangers.
The forum further noted that the Constitution provides clear procedures for the removal of a governor, deputy governor, and members of the House of Assembly, as outlined in Section 188 and related provisions. “In the current situation, it appears that these guidelines might not have been fully considered,” Diri stated, suggesting that General Tinubu’s actions bypassed established legal processes.
Diri emphasized that the political conflict in Rivers State, primarily between the governor and the State House of Assembly, should be resolved through constitutional channels rather than through an executive directive. To de-escalate tensions and foster lasting peace, the South-South Governors Forum called for the immediate reversal of the state of emergency.
In the interim, the forum urged all stakeholders to remain calm, uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and prioritize dialogue to resolve the crisis. The governors reaffirmed their commitment to peace and constitutional governance, advocating for a solution that respects the rule of law and the democratic process in Rivers State.
