Governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have announced plans to challenge the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
The move follows Tinubu’s decision to dissolve the state government, suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other state officials, and appoint an administrator to oversee affairs in the state.
During a virtual meeting, PDP governors expressed their opposition to the emergency rule and confirmed their intention to challenge it in court.
A communique issued after the meeting, signed by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, emphasized their commitment to protecting constitutional democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
“The Forum reviewed the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and strongly opposed the suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and members of the state House of Assembly.”
The governors resolved to instruct their Attorneys General to seek judicial interpretation of Section 305 (3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which the President invoked in his declaration.
“We remain committed to defending democratic governance and ensuring that constitutional provisions are upheld,” the statement read.
The PDP governors also expressed solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the people of Rivers State during this political crisis.
“The Forum stands with His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the people of Rivers State in this difficult time,” they stated.
They further encouraged Rivers residents and Nigerians not to lose hope despite what they described as attempts at political intimidation.
“We urge the people of Rivers State and Nigerians at large to stay strong in the face of these undemocratic actions.”
The following governors and officials participated in the meeting:
- Senator Bala Mohammed (Bauchi State) – Chairman, PDP Governors’ Forum
- Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers State) – Vice Chairman, PDP Governors’ Forum
- Engr. Seyi Makinde (Oyo State)
- Senator Douye Diri (Bayelsa State)
- Dr. Peter Mbah (Enugu State)
- Senator Ademola Adeleke (Osun State)
- Barrister Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau State)
- Dr. Agbu Kefas (Taraba State)
- Dr. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State)
- Sir Monday Onyeme (Delta State Deputy Governor)
