Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has voiced strong opposition to the federal government’s recent suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement released on Friday, March 21, NEF spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the state House of Assembly.
The forum condemned the president’s action, describing it as an overreach that lacks legal justification. According to NEF, the situation in Rivers does not meet the constitutional conditions necessary for imposing emergency rule.
President Tinubu had, on Tuesday, March 18, invoked emergency powers in Rivers State, citing ongoing political instability. This led to the temporary removal of the governor, his deputy, and lawmakers for a six-month period.
However, NEF insists that the move does not align with Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the prerequisites for declaring a state of emergency. These include threats such as war, natural disasters, public unrest, or a formal request from a state governor — none of which, the group argues, apply to Rivers.
In the words of Professor Jiddere:
“There is no credible evidence of any situation in Rivers State that justifies emergency rule under the constitution. What we are witnessing appears to be driven by political rivalry rather than a genuine crisis.”
NEF further alleged that the decision may have been influenced by personal conflicts involving a current federal minister and the former governor of Rivers State, both of whom are seen as political adversaries of Fubara.
The group urged the president to prioritize dialogue and peaceful resolution over punitive measures, noting that any further escalation could threaten democratic stability.
Additionally, NEF cautioned the federal government to be mindful of similar tensions brewing in other parts of the country, particularly in Kano State, where disputes over traditional leadership remain unresolved.
“The government must act as a neutral arbiter and avoid actions that could inflame local political tensions,” the statement concluded.
